- Native Trees<\/a>
- 1. Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)<\/a><\/li>
- 2. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Native Ferns<\/a>
- 3. Southern Lady Fern (Athyrium asplenioides)<\/a><\/li>
- 4. Cinnamon Fern (Osmundastrum cinnamomeum)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Native Vines<\/a>
- 5. Yellow Jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens)<\/a><\/li>
- 6. Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Native Shrubs<\/a>
- 7. Inkberry Holly (Ilex glabra)<\/a><\/li>
- 8. American Beautyberry (Callicarpa Americana)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Native Grasses<\/a>
- 9. Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaries)<\/a><\/li>
- 10. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- FAQ: Native Plant Landscaping\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>
Native Trees<\/h2>
From the tall pines that line our shores to the enormous oaks providing shade, trees have been a vital part of this region since its first settlers. They are found almost everywhere in South Carolina. Because they prevent soil from eroding, offer a habitat for wildlife, and reduce air pollution, trees are essential natural resources.<\/p>
1. Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora<\/em>)<\/h3>
![\"Magnolia](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/800px-Magnolia_grandiflora_Piazzo.jpg\")
Photo Credit: <\/a>Syrio<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a> <\/figcaption><\/figure> The Southern Magnolia is a classic evergreen tree of the South. Its large, glossy leaves and fragrant white flowers make it a perfect centerpiece for a large landscape. It can grow to 80 feet tall with a spread of up to 50 feet, so plan accordingly. Additionally, the tree produces cones that you can use for holiday decorations.<\/p>
If you’re lucky enough to have a Southern Magnolia on your property, take good care of it. The tree requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and size and needs to be watered during dry spells. With the proper care, the Southern Magnolia will continue to be a beautiful flowering tree<\/a> for your Charleston landscape for years to come.
<\/p>Plant type:<\/strong> Tree<\/p>
USDA Hardiness Zone: <\/strong>7 to 9<\/p>
Sun: <\/strong>Partial shade or full sun<\/p>
Soil: <\/strong>Well-drained, loamy, moist, rich soils<\/p>
Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p>
Fragrance: <\/strong>When in bloom, the creamy-white blossoms emit a wonderful fragrance into the air and are great for sensory gardens<\/a>.<\/p>
Bloom time: <\/strong>April to June or late spring<\/p>
Water needs: <\/strong>To establish the root ball, apply two gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter per day for two weeks, then every other day for two months, and finally once a week.<\/p>
Mature height: <\/strong>60-80 feet high<\/p>
Notes: <\/strong>Relatively pest and disease-resistant tree<\/a>, but occasionally scales and algal leaf spot are possible. Moderately deer-resistant.<\/p>
Maintenance: <\/strong>Southern magnolias require a lot of room and are best suited to large landscapes. Apply 3 inches of mulch without touching the trunk after planting. Keep the soil moist and dead branches trimmed. Avoid pruning lower limbs and leaves as it may result in stress-induced issues or disease.<\/p>
2. Red Maple (Acer rubrum<\/em>)<\/h3>
![\"Red](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/rsz_1red-maple-tree-1106613001860497ss.jpg\")
Red Maple Tree
Photo Credit: David Wagner<\/a> \/ PublicDomainPictures \/ CC0 1.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>Native to eastern North America, red maple trees are large, deciduous trees. Red maples grow well in all soil types<\/a> but prefer acidic, moist conditions, making them an excellent fit for Charleston. The tree produces brilliant fall foliage, ranging from a vibrant red to a yellow or greenish-yellow.<\/p>
Red maples are incredibly versatile as fast-growing shade trees<\/a>, from urban streets to residential landscapes. Keep in mind they can grow up to 60 feet. They are also an important tree species for wildlife, providing food and habitat for various South Carolina birds and mammals.<\/p>
Plant type:<\/strong> Tree<\/p>
USDA Hardiness Zone<\/strong>: 3 to 9<\/p>
Sun:<\/strong> Full sun to partial shade<\/p>
Soil:<\/strong> Well-drained, acidic, loamy soils<\/p>
Duration:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>
Fragrance:<\/strong> None<\/p>
Season of Interest<\/strong>: Spring<\/p>
Water needs:<\/strong> Regular watering, particularly during extended periods of drought<\/p>
Mature height<\/strong>: 40 to 60 feet<\/p>
Notes:<\/strong><\/strong> Some susceptibility to common maple tree diseases<\/a>, mainly if grown in wet conditions.<\/p>
Maintenance:<\/strong> Regular pruning to maintain size and shape. The tree requires regular watering, particularly during periods of drought.<\/p>
Pro Tip: <\/strong>If you\u2019d prefer a small tree or don\u2019t have the space for a large shade tree, check out Eastern redbuds with their pink\/red flowers.<\/p>
Native Ferns<\/h2>
Ferns give a shaded environment a delicate, airy look. Whereas other plants cannot survive in complete shadow, many ferns can. Native ferns provide a landscape design with a distinctive texture and are an ideal choice for low spots on a property or drainage areas and can look stunning when planted in large quantities.<\/p>
3. Southern Lady Fern (Athyrium asplenioide<\/em><\/em>s)<\/h3>
![\"cluster](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_11024px-athyrium_asplenioides.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Shawn Taylor<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ CC BY 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> Southern lady ferns are a popular landscaping choice in Charleston because of their delicate and graceful appearance. With lacy fronds and a feathery texture, this deciduous fern adds a touch of elegance to any yard or rain garden<\/a>. <\/p>
Gardeners frequently choose the Southern lady fern because it is low maintenance and needs minimal fertilizing or pruning. A reliable option for those wishing to add some greenery to their outdoor living spaces<\/a>.<\/p>
Plant type:<\/strong> Fern<\/p>
USDA Hardiness Zone:<\/strong> 5 to 9<\/p>
Sun:<\/strong> Prefers shade or partial shade<\/p>
Soil: <\/strong>Clay, loamy, or sandy soil<\/p>
Duration:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>
Fragrance: <\/strong>None<\/p>
Season of Interest: <\/strong>Late spring to early fall<\/p>
Water needs:<\/strong> Medium, prefers moist soil<\/p>
Mature height: <\/strong>2 to 3 feet<\/p>
Notes:<\/strong> <\/strong>By mid-summer, fronds usually start to look a little ragged, but there are otherwise no significant pest or disease issues. <\/p>
Maintenance: <\/strong>To prevent fronds from breaking, provide shelter from the wind. Divide clumps in the spring every few years to reposition crowns near the soil line.<\/p>
4. Cinnamon Fern (Osmundastrum cinnamomeum<\/em>)<\/h3>
![\"frond](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_1024px-cinnamon_fern.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Cody Hough<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ CC BY-SA 3.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> Cinnamon fern is a great choice for adding a touch of greenery to your garden. Its beautiful, fertile fronds add an interesting texture to any landscape. It is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for. In fall, the leaves turn a golden yellow to copper shade that will add color to your autumn landscape<\/a>.<\/p>
This upright, deciduous fern is native to South Carolina and often grows to a height of 2 to 4 feet. It prefers full sun to part shade, but if planted in the sun, it requires constant moisture. Cinnamon ferns can tolerate some drought when planted in shade gardens<\/a>.<\/p>
Plant type:<\/strong> Fern<\/p>
USDA Hardiness Zone: <\/strong>3 to 9<\/p>
Sun: <\/strong>Full shade to full sun<\/p>
Soil: <\/strong>Well-draining, moist soil<\/p>
Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p>
Fragrance: <\/strong>None<\/p>
Season of interest: <\/strong>Spring, summer, and fall<\/p>
Water needs: <\/strong>Although it can endure some drought, it prefers regular watering. Avoid water-logged areas.<\/p>
Mature height: <\/strong>2 to 4 feet (up to 6 feet in some cases)<\/p>
Notes:<\/strong> <\/strong>Non-toxic. They can sunburn if they get too much light.<\/p>
Maintenance: <\/strong>Low-maintenance. Cut back old fronds in spring before new growth appears.<\/p>
Native Vines<\/h2>
Fast-growing vines, when grown on a trellis, can provide shade and are perfect for compact gardens because they require less area to mature than other plant species. Vine can help reduce noise and air pollution while also creating privacy. Flowering vines<\/a> attract pollinators such as hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.<\/p>
5. Yellow Jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens<\/em>)<\/h3>
![\"small](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_8655715597_2f609b6c79_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jeffry Davis<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> A native of the southeastern United States, yellow jessamine, also known as Carolina jessamine, is a hardy vine. From the coastal plains to the Piedmont and Blue Ridge region, the state flower is famous for its bright yellow flowers that bloom in late winter and early spring. The fragrant flowers attract pollinators<\/a> such as bees and butterflies.<\/p>
This evergreen thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It is a low-maintenance plant that only requires a little watering once established. It can grow up to 20 feet long, making it an excellent choice for trellises or arbors.<\/p>
Note:<\/strong> All parts of this plant are poisonous if ingested, and the sap can irritate sensitive skin, so it’s not recommended for homes with pets or small children. Contact Poison Control<\/a> if you suspect poisoning.<\/p>
Plant type<\/strong>: Vine<\/p>
USDA Hardiness Zone:<\/strong> 7 to 10<\/p>
Sun: <\/strong>Full sun to partial shade<\/p>
Soil:<\/strong> Well-drained<\/p>
Duration:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>
Fragrance:<\/strong> Fragrant<\/p>
Bloom time:<\/strong> Late winter to early spring<\/p>
Water needs:<\/strong> Low<\/p>
Mature height:<\/strong> Up to 20 feet<\/p>
Notes:<\/strong><\/strong> All parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested.<\/p>
Maintenance: <\/strong>Low maintenance; pruning is not necessary but can be done to control the size of the vine.<\/p>
6. Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia<\/em>)<\/h3>
![\"closeup](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Virginia-Creeper.jpg\")
Source: keith ellwood<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> Virginia creeper is a woody deciduous vine reaching up to 40 feet tall and producing luxurious green foliage. It is similar in appearance to poison ivy<\/a> but produces vibrant berries and has five leaves instead of three. These berries are not edible but attract native birds from around South Carolina.<\/p>
When planting a Virginia creeper, supporting the vine with something to climb on, such as a trellis<\/a> or fence, is crucial. <\/p>
Note<\/strong>: This plant can be invasive if not properly maintained, so regular pruning is recommended.<\/p>
Plant type:<\/strong> Vine<\/p>
USDA Hardiness Zone:<\/strong> 3 to 9<\/p>
Sun:<\/strong> Partial shade to full sun<\/p>
Soil:<\/strong> Well-drained, moist, loamy soils<\/p>
Duration:<\/strong> Perennial<\/p>
Fragrance:<\/strong> None<\/p>
Season of Interest:<\/strong> Late spring to early summer, turning purple or red in the fall<\/p>
Water needs:<\/strong> Medium, prefers moist soil<\/p>
Mature height:<\/strong> Up to 40 feet<\/p>
Notes:<\/strong><\/strong> <\/strong> High toxicity. The fruit is extremely poisonous or fatal to people if eaten.<\/p>
Maintenance:<\/strong> Regular pruning to maintain size and shape. Provide support for the climbing vine with a trellis or fence.<\/p>
Native Shrubs<\/h2>
Native shrubs can define outdoor living spaces because of their wide range of colors, flowers, and scents. You can create a beautiful backyard that is good for the ecosystem by including native South Carolina shrubs in your landscape design.<\/p>
7. Inkberry Holly (Ilex glabra<\/em>)<\/h3>
![\"green](\"https:\/\/wp.wikilawn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Inkberry-Holly-Ilex-coriacea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a> <\/figcaption><\/figure> Inkberry holly is an evergreen shrub<\/a> native to the eastern United States that sports glossy, dark green, oval-shaped leaves. In May and June, inkberry bears greenish-white flowers, followed by pea-sized black fruits in early October, which attract various birds and wildlife.<\/p>
Inkberry thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. It is a low-maintenance plant that requires only a little watering once established. Moderately salt-tolerant, it can grow up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for privacy hedges<\/a>.<\/p>
- 10. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- 8. American Beautyberry (Callicarpa Americana)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- 6. Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- 4. Cinnamon Fern (Osmundastrum cinnamomeum)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- 2. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- 1. Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)<\/a><\/li>