Discover Missouri’s Rich Floral Heritage: 10 most common wildflowers native to the state.

Missouri boasts a rich tapestry of native flora, with common wildflowers native to the state painting its landscapes with vibrant hues. From the undulating Ozark hills to the expansive prairies, these native plants thrive in various ecosystems across Missouri. Here, we’ll explore ten of the most prevalent wildflowers that grace the Show-Me State’s natural areas.— Does this

Some common wildflower species native to Missouri include:

1. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

2. Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

3. Missouri primrose (Oenothera macrocarpa)

4. Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

5. Indian paintbrush (Castilleja coccinea)

6. Butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa)

7. Missouri goldenrod (Solidago missouriensis)

8. Woodland sunflower (Helianthus divaricatus)

9. Wild geranium (Geranium maculatum)

10. Spiderwort (Tradescantia spp.)

Here are ten of the most common wildflowers native to Missouri:

1. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

The cheerful yellow blooms of the Black-eyed Susan are a familiar sight in Missouri’s fields and meadows. These daisy-like flowers with dark centers attract pollinators and add a pop of color to the landscape.

2. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

Known for its medicinal properties and striking purple petals, the Purple Coneflower is a staple of Missouri’s native flora. It blooms throughout the summer, providing nectar for bees and butterflies.

3. Missouri Primrose (Oenothera macrocarpa)

The Missouri Primrose, also called the Ozark Sundrop, boasts large yellow flowers that open in the evening. This hardy perennial thrives in rocky glades and open woodlands across the state.

4. Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

With its lavender-hued blooms and aromatic foliage, Wild Bergamot adds both beauty and fragrance to Missouri’s prairies and open spaces. It’s a favorite of bees and hummingbirds.

5. Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja coccinea)

This striking wildflower, with its bright red, orange, or yellow blooms atop slender stems, adds a splash of color to Missouri’s grasslands and prairies. It’s often found in sandy or rocky soils.Source: Wildflowers of the Midwest – Indian Paintbrush

6. Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa)

As a vital host plant for monarch butterflies, Butterfly Milkweed is an essential part of Missouri’s ecosystem. Its vibrant orange flowers attract pollinators while providing food for caterpillars.

7. Missouri Goldenrod (Solidago missouriensis)

Despite its reputation for causing allergies, Missouri Goldenrod is an important native wildflower that brightens up roadsides and prairies with its clusters of golden-yellow blooms. It’s a valuable source of nectar for bees and butterflies.

8. Woodland Sunflower (Helianthus divaricatus)

As its name suggests, the Woodland Sunflower thrives in the dappled sunlight of Missouri’s forests and woodlands. Its cheerful yellow flowers bloom from summer into fall, attracting bees and other pollinators.

9. Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum)

Found in shaded woodlands and along stream banks, Wild Geranium displays delicate pink to purple flowers in spring. Its deeply lobed leaves and attractive blooms make it a favorite among native plant enthusiasts.

10. Spiderwort (Tradescantia spp.)

With its unique, spider-like flowers that come in shades of blue, purple, or pink, Spiderwort adds a touch of whimsy to Missouri’s natural areas. It’s often found in moist, shady habitats.

These ten wildflowers represent just a fraction of Missouri’s rich floral diversity. Whether you’re exploring a prairie, woodland, or roadside, keep an eye out for these native beauties and appreciate the important role they play in the state’s ecosystems

Sources: Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri Prairie Foundation, Wildflowers of the Midwest, University of Missouri Extension