Dedicated to the study, conservation, cultivation and restoration of native plants.
Welcome to the North American Native Plant Society. NANPS was founded in 1984 by a small group of dedicated conservationists as the Canadian Wildflower Society. We have since grown to include hundreds of members throughout North America.
One of our first initiatives was the founding and fostering of North America's foremost native plant magazine: Wildflower. Although the magazine now operates independently, it remains one of our proudest accomplishments.
The beauty of native plants, however, is not confined to its flowers. Sedges, mosses, grasses, and ferns all possess their own elegance and hold important places in the natural order. Native plants provide sustenance and habitat for a wide array of creatures -- ranging from invertebrates to large mammals -- with which they have co-evolved over thousands of years.
Unfortunately, widespread disturbances of natural areas have resulted in drastic reductions of native plant populations. The natural areas that do remain are increasingly degraded by invasive alien species such as purple loosestrife, garlic mustard, and buckthorn. Exotic species such as dandelion and Queen Anne's Lace, have overtaken the diverse landscapes of native wildflowers to such an extent that many people believe them to be native.
Our goal is to reverse this trend. Through education and information we aim to inspire an appreciation of North America's native plants -- aiding the restoration of healthy ecosystems across the continent.
The world of native plants is exciting, complex, and thoroughly enjoyable. Imagine walking out your front door to the buzz of insects, the chirps of excited birds, and the sight of fluttering butterflies moving from flower to flower in search of nectar. Perhaps you're already gardening with native plants and have experienced the thrill of nurturing indigenous life in your garden...or maybe you're just beginning to explore the limitless possibilities of native plant biodiversity and you want to do whatever you can to make a positive difference.
Whatever your reasons, and whatever your level of experience -- from novice to expert -- the North American Native Plant Society invites you to explore the world of native plants and to connect with our wonderful botanical heritage.
We welcome your interest and encourage your input.
For more information about the North American Native Plant Society contact us here.