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ALASKA · NATIVE PLANT FINDER

40 native plants for Alaska gardens.

Sun, water, bloom season, wildlife value, and an honest note on whether it's sold true to species or as a bred lookalike — for every Alaska-native plant in the registry.

40Native species listed
23With a live listing
1Blooming this month

Quick answer: Alaska has 40 native plants in this directory, 23 with a live listing as of 04 Nov 2026, and 3 with a lookalike alert — check before you buy.

Alaska has 40 native plants in this directory, from the West region. The typical last spring frost is around May 16 and the first fall frost around Sep 23, so most native seed goes in outdoors in late fall or winter. Of these, 25 feed pollinators, 20 tolerate some shade and 16 handle dry spells; bloom peaks in June. Good places to start: Western columbine, Farewell-to-spring and Saskatoon serviceberry.

Right nowLast frost around May 16, first frost around Sep 23

Frost & zone
Last frost~May 16
First frost~Sep 23

Find your zone by ZIP

What blooms when

Top 10 native plants for Alaska

The easiest Alaska natives to start with: sold as the true wild species, high wildlife value, and easy to find from a seller.

  1. 1. Western columbinePollinators · Deer-resistant · Drought-tolerant · blooms May–Aug
  2. 2. Farewell-to-springPollinators · Shade · blooms Jun–Aug
  3. 3. Saskatoon serviceberryPollinators · Birds · blooms Apr–Jun
  4. 4. Canada wild ryePollinators · Caterpillar host · Deer-resistant · blooms Mar–Jun
  5. 5. FireweedPollinators · Caterpillar host · Birds · blooms Jun–Sep
  6. 6. Pearly everlastingPollinators · Caterpillar host · Drought-tolerant · blooms Jun–Oct
  7. 7. Red huckleberryPollinators · Drought-tolerant · Shade · blooms May–Jun
  8. 8. BearberryPollinators · Caterpillar host · Deer-resistant · blooms Mar–Jun
  9. 9. SalmonberryPollinators · Shade · Birds · blooms Mar–Jun
  10. 10. Red-osier dogwoodPollinators · Caterpillar host · Shade · blooms May–Jun

Plants

Balsam poplar

Populus balsamifera
SunMoistGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMApr-May

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Not currently sold

Balsam poplar

Populus balsamifera
Sun
Sun
Water
Moist
Bloom
Apr-May
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Moist soils

Height

20-60 ft typically, up to 130 ft

Wildlife value

Bees gather resin ("bee glue"), larval host for Viceroy butterfly, traditional medicinal uses

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 15 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Balsam poplar (Populus balsamifera)

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Beach strawberry

Fragaria chiloensis
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeDryGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMApr-Jun

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Not currently sold

Beach strawberry

Fragaria chiloensis
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
Dry
Bloom
Apr-Jun
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Sandy soils

Height

Low ground cover, stems to 10 in

Wildlife value

Attracts birds, excellent sand-binding ground cover

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 15 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Beach strawberry (Fragaria chiloensis)

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Bearberry

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeLow water, Dry-Moist, high drought toleranceBuy as a plantWild species
BLOOMBloom Mar-Jun

live plant, In Stock

Listing verified 15 Sep 2026

Bearberry

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
Low water, Dry-Moist, high drought tolerance
Bloom
Bloom Mar-Jun
Sold as
Live plant
Soil

Rocky or sandy, acid soils

Height

6-12 in tall, spread up to 15 ft

Wildlife value

Fruit favored by birds and wildlife, larval host for Hoary Elfin/Brown Elfin/Freija Fritillary, attracts butterflies/hummingbirds

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) — Live plant

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Bluebunch wheatgrass

Pseudoroegneria spicata
SunDryGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom May-Jul

western native added 24 Oct 2026. Range from USDA PLANTS (PSSP6), limited to the western and Plains states where it is native....

Not currently sold

Bluebunch wheatgrass

Pseudoroegneria spicata
Sun
Sun
Water
Dry
Bloom
Bloom May-Jul
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Well-drained

Height

1-3 ft

Wildlife value

Wildlife forage

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 24 Oct 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata)

No live listing found as of 24 Oct 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 24 Oct 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Bog Labrador tea

Ledum groenlandicum
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeMediumGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMMay-Aug

No live listing found as of 16 Sep 2026.

Not currently sold

Bog Labrador tea

Ledum groenlandicum
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
Medium
Bloom
May-Aug
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Acid, wet to moist, peat/muck

Height

Up to 5 ft

Wildlife value

Attracts butterflies, larval host for Northern Blue

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 16 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Toxicity

All plant parts highly toxic and potentially fatal; symptoms: salivation, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weakness, breathing difficulty, progressive paralysis; andromedotoxin

Bog Labrador tea (Ledum groenlandicum)

No live listing found as of 16 Sep 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 16 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Bog laurel

Kalmia polifolia
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeMedium (wet)Grow from seedWild species
BLOOMMay-Jun

No live listing found as of 16 Sep 2026.

Not currently sold

Bog laurel

Kalmia polifolia
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
Medium (wet)
Bloom
May-Jun
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Wet, organic, peat, acidic

Height

Up to 3 ft

Wildlife value

Conspicuous flowers

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 16 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Toxicity

All plant parts highly toxic and potentially fatal; symptoms: salivation, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, lack of coordination, paralysis; andromedotoxin and arbutin

Bog laurel (Kalmia polifolia)

No live listing found as of 16 Sep 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 16 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Broadleaf cattail

Typha latifolia
Sun, Part ShadeHigh, WetGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMApr-Jun

Seeds (15000 ct), In stock, $9.99

Listing verified 16 Sep 2026

Broadleaf cattail

Typha latifolia
Sun
Sun, Part Shade
Water
High, Wet
Bloom
Apr-Jun
Sold as
Seeds
Soil

Rich, wet, mud, saline-tolerant

Height

7-10 ft

Wildlife value

Nesting sites for red-winged blackbirds/ducks/geese/fish, shoots/roots eaten by nutria/muskrats/beavers

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Invasive / regulated

Tendency to take over wetlands; aggressive, requires management like a weed; recommended for containers to control spread

Broadleaf cattail (Typha latifolia) — Seeds

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 16 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Bunchberry

Cornus canadensis
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeHigh water, MoistGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom May-Sep

live plant, In Stock

Listing verified 15 Sep 2026

Bunchberry

Cornus canadensis
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
High water, Moist
Bloom
Bloom May-Sep
Sold as
Seed
Soil

Damp, cool, acid soil or peat moss

Height

Up to 10 in tall

Wildlife value

Red berries eaten by wildlife and used as trail food, conspicuous flowers

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Bunchberry (Cornus canadensis) — Seed

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Canada wild rye

Elymus canadensis
Sun, Part ShadeMedium water, Moist, well-drainedGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom Mar-Jun

Sold as seed via Amazon; verified 16 Sep 2026.

Listing verified 16 Sep 2026

Canada wild rye

Elymus canadensis
Sun
Sun, Part Shade
Water
Medium water, Moist, well-drained
Bloom
Bloom Mar-Jun
Sold as
Seed
Soil

Acid or calcareous sand, loam, clay, or limestone soils

Height

2-4 ft, up to 6 ft tall

Wildlife value

Nesting material, seeds for birds/small mammals, forage for livestock, larval host for Zabulon skipper, high deer resistance

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Toxicity

Seed awns pose a serious injury risk to dogs (can cause severe eye injuries) — avoid using where dogs frequent.

Canada wild rye (Elymus canadensis) — Seed

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 16 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Common juniper

Juniperus communis
SunLowGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMApr

Seeds (60 ct), In Stock, $3.00

Listing verified 16 Sep 2026

Common juniper

Juniperus communis
Sun
Sun
Water
Low
Bloom
Apr
Sold as
Seeds
Soil

Sandy

Height

Shrub to 12 ft, or tree to 30 ft

Wildlife value

Attracts birds, cones feed grouse/pheasants/bobwhites

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Toxicity

Fleshy cones (resemble berries) and leaves poisonous; contains volatile oils including thujone

Common juniper (Juniperus communis) — Seeds

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 16 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Common sunflower

Helianthus annuus
SunDry-MediumGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom Jul-Oct

western native added 24 Oct 2026. Range from USDA PLANTS (HEAN3), limited to the western and Plains states where it is native....

Not currently sold

Common sunflower

Helianthus annuus
Sun
Sun
Water
Dry-Medium
Bloom
Bloom Jul-Oct
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Most soils

Height

3-8 ft

Wildlife value

Bees, seeds for birds

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 24 Oct 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Common sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

No live listing found as of 24 Oct 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 24 Oct 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Engelmann spruce

Picea engelmannii
Sun, Part ShadeMoistBuy as a plantUsually a bred variety
BLOOMApr-May, yellow flowers

Live plant ('Bush's Lace' weeping cultivar), In Stock, $39.97 -- horticultural cultivar, not straight wild-type; mixed reviews...

Listing verified 15 Sep 2026

Engelmann spruce

Picea engelmannii
Sun
Sun, Part Shade
Water
Moist
Bloom
Apr-May, yellow flowers
Sold as
Live plant
Soil

Moist, rich, loamy soils

Height

Up to 200 ft, typically 75-100 ft

Wildlife value

Supports songbirds, small mammals, hooved browsers

Lookalike alert

Live plant ('Bush's Lace' weeping cultivar), In Stock, $39.97 -- horticultural cultivar, not straight wild-type; mixed reviews on size/value.

Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii) — Live plant

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Farewell-to-spring

Clarkia amoena
Part Shademoist before flowering, drier once bloomingGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMJun-Aug

Seeds (SPROUTARAQ/GraceBee, 100+ ct), In Stock, $7.50 -- confirmed via product description naming Clarkia amoena explicitly (al...

Listing verified 15 Sep 2026

Farewell-to-spring

Clarkia amoena
Sun
Part Shade
Water
moist before flowering, drier once blooming
Bloom
Jun-Aug
Sold as
Seeds
Soil

Nutrient-poor, sandy loams

Height

1-3+ ft typically, stems to 6 ft

Wildlife value

Special value to native bees

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Farewell-to-spring (Clarkia amoena) — Seeds

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Feathery false Solomon's seal

Maianthemum racemosum
Grow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom Apr

No live listing found as of 03 Nov 2026.

Not currently sold

Feathery false Solomon's seal

Maianthemum racemosum
Sun
Not researched
Water
Not researched
Bloom
Bloom Apr
Sold as
Herb
Soil

Gravelly and clay soils mentioned

Height

Stems up to 4 ft, often shorter

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 03 Nov 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Feathery false Solomon's seal (Maianthemum racemosum) — Herb

No live listing found as of 03 Nov 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 03 Nov 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Fireweed

Chamerion angustifolium
SunMoistGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom Jun-Sep

in ME/VT under synonym Epilobium angustifolium; NJ hit is a weak/garbled listing

Listing verified 16 Sep 2026

Fireweed

Chamerion angustifolium
Sun
Sun
Water
Moist
Bloom
Bloom Jun-Sep
Sold as
Seed
Soil

Disturbed soil in cool areas, lowlands to mountains

Height

Up to 6 ft tall

Wildlife value

Attracts bees, moths, and hummingbirds, larval host for white-lined sphinx moths, special value to native and honey bees

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Invasive / regulated

Aggressive spreader in moist garden conditions via underground stems; not formally regulated.

Fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium) — Seed

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 16 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Giant red paintbrush

Castilleja miniata
SunMediumGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom Jun-Sep

western native added 24 Oct 2026. Range from USDA PLANTS (CAMI12), limited to the western and Plains states where it is native....

Not currently sold

Giant red paintbrush

Castilleja miniata
Sun
Sun
Water
Medium
Bloom
Bloom Jun-Sep
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Moist meadows

Height

1-3 ft

Wildlife value

Hummingbirds

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 24 Oct 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Giant red paintbrush (Castilleja miniata)

No live listing found as of 24 Oct 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 24 Oct 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Harebell

Campanula rotundifolia
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeDryGrow from seedUsually a bred variety
BLOOMBloom Jun-Sep

Species correct; SKU is European "Bluebell of Scotland" garden stock everywhere — circumboreal caveat consistent across all 4

Listing verified 16 Sep 2026

Harebell

Campanula rotundifolia
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
Dry
Bloom
Bloom Jun-Sep
Sold as
Seeds
Soil

Sandy, well-drained soils

Height

Up to 15 in tall

Wildlife value

Attracts hummingbirds, conspicuous flowers

Lookalike alert

Species correct; SKU is European "Bluebell of Scotland" garden stock everywhere — circumboreal caveat consistent across all 4.

Harebell (Campanula rotundifolia) — Seeds

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 16 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Littleflower penstemon

Penstemon procerus
Sun, Part ShadeMediumGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom Jun-Aug

western native added 24 Oct 2026. Range from USDA PLANTS (PEPR2), limited to the western and Plains states where it is native....

Not currently sold

Littleflower penstemon

Penstemon procerus
Sun
Sun, Part Shade
Water
Medium
Bloom
Bloom Jun-Aug
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Moist meadows, well-drained

Height

4-16 in

Wildlife value

Bees

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 24 Oct 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Littleflower penstemon (Penstemon procerus)

No live listing found as of 24 Oct 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 24 Oct 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Marsh marigold

Caltha palustris
Part Shade, ShadeHigh water, Moist-WetGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom Apr-May

Sold as seed via Amazon; verified 04 Nov 2026.

Listing verified 04 Nov 2026

Marsh marigold

Caltha palustris
Sun
Part Shade, Shade
Water
High water, Moist-Wet
Bloom
Bloom Apr-May
Sold as
Seed
Soil

Muddy, humus-rich soil

Height

Up to 2 ft tall

Wildlife value

Attracts birds, conspicuous flowers, all parts poisonous in quantity

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (04 Nov 2026), via Amazon.

Toxicity

Plant juices can cause blistering/inflammation on skin or mucous membranes on contact, and gastric illness if ingested. Leaves are poisonous part, toxic mainly in large quantities. Symptoms: burning throat, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, convulsions. Toxic compound: protoanemonin

Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) — Seed

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 04 Nov 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Mountain avens

Dryas octopetala
SunDryGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMJun-Jul

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Not currently sold

Mountain avens

Dryas octopetala
Sun
Sun
Water
Dry
Bloom
Jun-Jul
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils

Height

Mat-forming to 8 in tall, 3 ft wide

Wildlife value

Larval host for Alberta Fritillary butterfly

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 15 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Mountain avens (Dryas octopetala)

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Mountain hemlock

Tsuga mertensiana
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeMoistBuy as a plantWild species
BLOOMJun-Jul

Live young tree in nursery pot, In Stock, $25.00

Listing verified 15 Sep 2026

Mountain hemlock

Tsuga mertensiana
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
Moist
Bloom
Jun-Jul
Sold as
Live plant
Soil

Cool, moist soils

Height

Up to 150 ft, typically 20-60 ft

Wildlife value

Cover/nesting/seeds for birds, foliage for mountain goats and browsers

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Mountain hemlock (Tsuga mertensiana) — Live plant

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Nootka rose

Rosa nutkana
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeDry, MoistGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMMay-Jul

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Not currently sold

Nootka rose

Rosa nutkana
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Bloom
May-Jul
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Moist to drier soils

Height

Up to 12 ft, often shorter

Wildlife value

Special value to native bees/bumble bees, larval host for mourning cloak and grey hairstreak butterflies

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 15 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Nootka rose (Rosa nutkana)

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Northern maidenhair fern

Adiantum pedatum
Part Shade, ShadeKeep evenly moist, will not survive drying outBuy as a plantWild species

Sold as live plant (rhizome) via Amazon; verified 04 Nov 2026.

Listing verified 04 Nov 2026

Northern maidenhair fern

Adiantum pedatum
Sun
Part Shade, Shade
Water
Keep evenly moist, will not survive drying out
Bloom
Non-flowering (spore-bearing fern)
Sold as
Live plant (rhizome)
Soil

Rich, moist, well-drained, mostly acidic, tolerates some lime

Height

Fronds 8-30 in

Wildlife value

Shelter for toads and lizards

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (04 Nov 2026), via Amazon.

Northern maidenhair fern (Adiantum pedatum) — Live plant (rhizome)

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 04 Nov 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Pacific yew

Taxus brevifolia
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeDry, MoistGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMJun-Jul, inconspicuous flowers

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Not currently sold

Pacific yew

Taxus brevifolia
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Bloom
Jun-Jul, inconspicuous flowers
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Moist soils

Height

Up to 80 ft, typically 15-50 ft

Wildlife value

Birds eat/disperse seed coverings, source of Taxol (cancer drug), nearly all parts toxic

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 15 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Toxicity

highly toxic — nearly all plant parts toxic to humans (except the fleshy red aril); source of Taxol

Pacific yew (Taxus brevifolia)

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Pearly everlasting

Anaphalis margaritacea
Sun, Part ShadeDry, Medium water useGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMJun-Oct

Sold as seeds via Amazon; verified 16 Sep 2026.

Listing verified 16 Sep 2026

Pearly everlasting

Anaphalis margaritacea
Sun
Sun, Part Shade
Water
Dry, Medium water use
Bloom
Jun-Oct
Sold as
Seeds
Soil

Sandy or gravelly soils

Height

Up to 3 ft

Wildlife value

Food source for Painted Lady/American Lady butterflies, larval host for Painted Ladies and skippers

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Pearly everlasting (Anaphalis margaritacea) — Seeds

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 16 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Quaking aspen

Populus tremuloides
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeHigh water, Dry-WetGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom Mar-Jun

(TreeHelp seeds); In Stock, $6.00, 3.0★/19 reviews — live-verified

Listing verified 15 Sep 2026

Quaking aspen

Populus tremuloides
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
High water, Dry-Wet
Bloom
Bloom Mar-Jun
Sold as
Seed
Soil

Igneous, limestone-based, sandy, sandy loam, medium loam, caliche, shallow rocky soils

Height

35-50 ft, up to 100 ft

Wildlife value

Host to birds/mammals/butterflies, larval host for Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Viceroy, browse for deer/elk/moose/beavers

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) — Seed

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Red huckleberry

Vaccinium parvifolium
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeDry, MoistGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMMay-Jun

Seeds (30 ct), In Stock, $10.49

Listing verified 15 Sep 2026

Red huckleberry

Vaccinium parvifolium
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Bloom
May-Jun
Sold as
Seeds
Soil

Moist, rich, acid soils

Height

Up to 20 ft, often smaller

Wildlife value

Birds/mammals eat berries, special value to native bees

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Red huckleberry (Vaccinium parvifolium) — Seeds

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Red-osier dogwood

Cornus sericea
Part ShadeMoistGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom May-Jun

Sold as seed via Amazon; verified 16 Sep 2026.

Listing verified 16 Sep 2026

Red-osier dogwood

Cornus sericea
Sun
Part Shade
Water
Moist
Bloom
Bloom May-Jun
Sold as
Seed
Soil

Moist, well-drained soils

Height

Up to 12 ft tall

Wildlife value

Waterfowl, marshbirds, shorebirds, and mammals major users, attracts birds/butterflies, larval host for Spring Azure

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Red-osier dogwood (Cornus sericea) — Seed

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 16 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Salmonberry

Rubus spectabilis
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeMoistGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMMar-Jun

Seeds (50 ct), In Stock, $10.49

Listing verified 15 Sep 2026

Salmonberry

Rubus spectabilis
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
Moist
Bloom
Mar-Jun
Sold as
Seeds
Soil

Moist to drier soils

Height

3-9 ft typically, up to 12 ft

Wildlife value

Valuable to songbirds, game birds, mammals, native bees/bumble bees

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis) — Seeds

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Saskatoon serviceberry

Amelanchier alnifolia
Sun, Part ShadeMediumGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom Apr-Jun

western native added 24 Oct 2026. Range from USDA PLANTS (AMAL2), limited to the western and Plains states where it is native....

Listing verified 24 Oct 2026

Saskatoon serviceberry

Amelanchier alnifolia
Sun
Sun, Part Shade
Water
Medium
Bloom
Bloom Apr-Jun
Sold as
Seed
Soil

Well-drained

Height

6-15 ft

Wildlife value

Berries for birds, bees

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (24 Oct 2026), via Amazon.

Saskatoon serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia) — Seed

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 24 Oct 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Seep monkeyflower

Erythranthe guttata
Sun, Part ShadeWetGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom Mar-Sep

western native added 24 Oct 2026. Range from USDA PLANTS (MIGU), limited to the western and Plains states where it is native. N...

Not currently sold

Seep monkeyflower

Erythranthe guttata
Sun
Sun, Part Shade
Water
Wet
Bloom
Bloom Mar-Sep
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Wet soil, stream edges

Height

1-3 ft

Wildlife value

Bees, hummingbirds, butterfly host

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 24 Oct 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Seep monkeyflower (Erythranthe guttata)

No live listing found as of 24 Oct 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 24 Oct 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Shore pine

Pinus contorta
SunDryBuy as a plantWild species
BLOOMJun

Live seedling (var. contorta), In Stock, $8.99

Listing verified 15 Sep 2026

Shore pine

Pinus contorta
Sun
Sun
Water
Dry
Bloom
Jun
Sold as
Live plant
Soil

Rocky soils, tolerates poor/sandy soils and salt spray

Height

Up to 150 ft max, often 20-40 ft

Wildlife value

Larval host for Western Pine Elfin butterfly, fire-adapted cones

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Shore pine (Pinus contorta) — Live plant

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Shrubby cinquefoil

Dasiphora fruticosa ssp. floribunda
Sun, Part ShadeMediumBuy as a plantUsually a bred variety
BLOOMJun-Nov

'Medicine Wheel' cultivar, 3-pack, Only 2 left In Stock, $31.00

Listing verified 15 Sep 2026

Shrubby cinquefoil

Dasiphora fruticosa ssp. floribunda
Sun
Sun, Part Shade
Water
Medium
Bloom
Jun-Nov
Sold as
Live plant
Height

Up to 4 ft

Wildlife value

Attracts butterflies

Lookalike alert

'Medicine Wheel' cultivar, 3-pack, Only 2 left In Stock, $31.00.

Shrubby cinquefoil (Dasiphora fruticosa ssp. floribunda) — Live plant

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Sitka spruce

Picea sitchensis
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeMoist, WetGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMApr-May

Seeds (TreeHelp, 60 ct), In Stock, $6.00

Listing verified 15 Sep 2026

Sitka spruce

Picea sitchensis
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Bloom
Apr-May
Sold as
Seeds
Soil

Moist to wet soils

Height

Up to 250 ft, often much shorter

Wildlife value

Attracts birds, seed cones feed wildlife

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) — Seeds

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Water birch

Betula occidentalis
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeMoistGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMApr-May

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Not currently sold

Water birch

Betula occidentalis
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
Moist
Bloom
Apr-May
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Moist soils

Height

20-30 ft

Wildlife value

Attracts birds/hummingbirds, browsed by livestock, sap used for syrup/beverages

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 15 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Water birch (Betula occidentalis)

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Western columbine

Aquilegia formosa
Sun, Part ShadeDry, MoistBuy as a plantWild species
BLOOMMay-Aug

Live plant (2.5in pot), only 6 left in stock, $7.00 -- seller cannot ship to Alaska; still a genuine, correctly-identified live...

Listing verified 15 Sep 2026

Western columbine

Aquilegia formosa
Sun
Sun, Part Shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Bloom
May-Aug
Sold as
Live plant
Soil

Moist, rocky soils, tolerates dry nutrient-poor soil

Height

Up to 3 ft

Wildlife value

Attracts hummingbirds, nectar/young leaves used traditionally by Indigenous peoples

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.

Western columbine (Aquilegia formosa) — Live plant

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Western hemlock

Tsuga heterophylla
Sun, Part Shade, ShadeMoist, WetGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMApr, purple blooms

No live listing found as of 04 Nov 2026.

Not currently sold

Western hemlock

Tsuga heterophylla
Sun
Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Bloom
Apr, purple blooms
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Moist to mesic soils, high humidity

Height

Up to 200 ft, 100 ft in cultivation

Wildlife value

Inner bark/wood used by Indigenous peoples for food, medicine, tools

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 04 Nov 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla)

No live listing found as of 04 Nov 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 04 Nov 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Western redcedar

Thuja plicata
Part Shade, ShadeMoist, WetGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMApr

Seeds (MySeeds.Co, trial packet), only 1 left in stock, $12.00

Listing verified 04 Nov 2026

Western redcedar

Thuja plicata
Sun
Part Shade, Shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Bloom
Apr
Sold as
Seeds
Soil

Moist, slightly acidic soils

Height

Up to 200 ft, typically 50-75 ft

Wildlife value

Larval host for Rosner's Hairstreak butterfly, culturally significant to First Nations (totem poles)

Buying it

Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (04 Nov 2026), via Amazon.

Western redcedar (Thuja plicata) — Seeds

See where to buy →

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 04 Nov 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Western yarrow

Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis
SunDryGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMBloom May-Sep

western native added 24 Oct 2026. Range from USDA PLANTS (ACMI2), limited to the western and Plains states where it is native....

Not currently sold

Western yarrow

Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis
Sun
Sun
Water
Dry
Bloom
Bloom May-Sep
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Most soils

Height

1-3 ft

Wildlife value

Bees, small butterflies

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 24 Oct 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Western yarrow (Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis)

No live listing found as of 24 Oct 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 24 Oct 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Winterfat

Krascheninnikovia lanata
SunLow water, drought tolerantGrow from seedWild species
BLOOMMar-Jun

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Not currently sold

Winterfat

Krascheninnikovia lanata
Sun
Sun
Water
Low water, drought tolerant
Bloom
Mar-Jun
Sold as
Not currently sold
Soil

Clay, chalky or saline soils

Height

Up to 3 ft

Wildlife value

Winter browse for rabbits and other wildlife

Buying it

No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 15 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.

Winterfat (Krascheninnikovia lanata)

No live listing found as of 15 Sep 2026.

Full profile: states where it's native, sourcing history →

Prices change and stock sells out. Listing verified 15 Sep 2026. Always check your state's native plant list before planting.

Growing basics for Alaska

Frost dates and the sowing calendar for your area.

Hardiness zoneVariesZones differ across Alaska · find yours by ZIP
Last spring frostMay 16Ranges Apr 18 – Jun 5 by location
First fall frostSep 23Ranges Aug 25 – Nov 1 by location
Frost-free season130 daysTypical, between the two dates

When to sow and plant

JanSow
FebSow
MarSow
AprSow
MayRest
JunSow + plant
JulRest
AugPlant
SepPlant
OctSow
NovSow
DecSow
Sow seed outdoorsPlant live plantsBothThis month
Sep 23 – Apr 16Sow seed: late fall into winter

Sow most native wildflower and grass seed outdoors. Many natives need weeks of cold, moist conditions before they sprout, and a Alaska winter does that for free.

May 16 – Jun 30Spring: after the last frost

Sow seed that needs no cold treatment, and set out live plants once the soil warms.

Aug 4 – Sep 16Plant: early fall

A strong second window for live plants and shrubs, while roots still have time to settle in.

Check each seed packet: a few species want spring sowing or special treatment. Frost dates are NOAA 1991–2020 normals (32°F, 50% chance) from 118 Alaska weather stations; your own yard may differ by a week or two.

Common questions about Alaska native plants

What are the best native plants for Alaska?

Good starter natives for Alaska gardens include Western columbine, Farewell-to-spring, Saskatoon serviceberry, Canada wild rye and Fireweed. They're sold as the true wild species, valuable to wildlife and suited to home gardens. The full list has 40 Alaska natives.

How many plants are native to Alaska?

This directory lists 40 plants native to Alaska, and 23 of them have a live seed or plant listing we've checked. Alaska has many more native species in the wild; this list focuses on plants that gardeners can grow.

When should I plant native seeds in Alaska?

Sow most native perennial seed outdoors in late fall or winter, after the first fall frost (typically around Sep 23 in Alaska). Winter cold breaks seed dormancy so it sprouts in spring. Set out nursery plants after the last spring frost (typically around May 16) or in early fall.

What native plants bloom in Alaska in November?

1 Alaska natives in this directory bloom in November, including Shrubby cinquefoil.

What are the best native plants for pollinators in Alaska?

Strong pollinator plants native to Alaska include Western columbine, Farewell-to-spring, Saskatoon serviceberry, Canada wild rye and Fireweed. The full list has 25 options.

What native plants are deer-resistant in Alaska?

Deer-resistant natives for Alaska include Western columbine, Canada wild rye, Bearberry, Sitka spruce and Common juniper. The full list has 10 options.

What native plants grow in shade in Alaska?

Shade-tolerant natives for Alaska include Farewell-to-spring, Red huckleberry, Bearberry, Salmonberry and Red-osier dogwood. The full list has 20 options.

What native plants are drought-tolerant in Alaska?

Drought-tolerant natives for Alaska include Western columbine, Pearly everlasting, Red huckleberry, Bearberry and Quaking aspen. The full list has 16 options.

About this list

Local help in Alaska: Alaska Native Plant Society · UAF Cooperative Extension Service

This page lists every species in the Native Seed Directory documented as native to Alaska — 40 plants, 23 of them with a live seed or plant listing verified as recently as 04 Nov 2026. Growing conditions come from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center; the "Buying it" note on each plant tells you whether what stores sell is the wild species or a bred variety. Open any card for soil, height, wildlife value and the buying note, or follow the plant name for its full profile and the other states where it grows.

Get the full buying guide for Alaska

Every pick worth knowing across pollinators, shade, drought and more, in one PDF, with the tradeoffs spelled out. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.