If you’re looking to create a yard that thrives with minimal effort, native plants are a great starting point. In Maple Valley and throughout the Pacific Northwest, certain plants are naturally suited to our wet winters, dry summers, and acidic soils.
Some standout native species to consider:
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Salal (Gaultheria shallon): A tough evergreen groundcover with leathery leaves and edible purple berries. It grows well in shade and poor soils.
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Western Trillium (Trillium ovatum): A delicate woodland flower that pops up in early spring, perfect for shaded garden beds.
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Douglas Aster (Symphyotrichum subspicatum): A late-summer bloomer that attracts pollinators and thrives in sunny spots with moist soil.
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Pacific Rhododendron (Rhododendron macrophyllum): Our state flower! This large shrub boasts stunning pink blooms and does well in partial shade.
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Oceanspray (Holodiscus discolor): A fast-growing shrub with frothy white flower clusters in summer, great for privacy or slope stabilization.
Whether you’re starting fresh or replacing existing plants, choosing native species helps you build a healthier landscape that works with — not against — our local climate.