Put simply, native plants are plant species that have grown naturally in a region without first being introduced by humans. Each native plant plays an important role in local ecosystems because they live in symbiosis with other native plant and wildlife species. Additionally, native plants are adapted to live in certain climates and soil conditions, thus, increasing their resiliency in those conditions.

Native plant species are often threatened by urbanization, development projects, and by the introduction of invasive species. Only a few hundred years ago, what are now backyards, parking lots, shopping centers and neighborhoods used to be native forests, wetlands, prairies, and other thriving ecosystems. In part, colonization has destroyed entire ecosystems and has caused certain species to become extinct. Being said, humans have the opportunity to reintroduce native species and establish thriving ecosystems within a modern context.

There are many ways to reintroduce native plant species. Homeowners can plant native species in their gardens, farmers and landowners can plant pollinator habitats, local officials can build green infrastructure, and decision makers can work with local conservation districts to learn which plant species are most beneficial in specific environments.