Native Plants vs. Native Cultivars
If you’ve ever watched your garden come alive with bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, you already know the magic of planting with purpose.
Pollinator-friendly gardening isn’t just a trend. It’s one of the most impactful ways to support local ecosystems right here in New Jersey. And the best part? It’s easier than you think once you understand what to plant.
At Bast Brothers Garden Center, we’re passionate about helping you build gardens that look beautiful and function beautifully. That’s why we’ve partnered with the Native Plant Society of New Jersey to continue bringing education and resources to our community throughout the season.
In this guide, we’re breaking down:
- What pollinators actually need
- The difference between native plants and native cultivars (nativars)
- Our top plant picks for New Jersey gardens
- How to build a pollinator-friendly space at home
We’re proud to partner with the Native Plant Society of New Jersey, a statewide nonprofit dedicated to promoting the appreciation, protection, and study of New Jersey’s native plants. Founded in 1983, the organization brings together gardeners, horticulturists, naturalists, and plant enthusiasts to educate the community through workshops, plant lists, and hands-on learning opportunities. Their work helps preserve New Jersey’s unique ecosystems while making native plant gardening more accessible for everyone.
Why Pollinators Matter (Especially in New Jersey)
Planting for Pollinators in New Jersey like bees, butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds are responsible for:
- Pollinating over 75% of flowering plants
- Supporting food production
- Keeping ecosystems balanced
As development increases we see natural habitats shrink and overuse of non-native plants have become more common, making it harder for pollinators to thrive.
Home gardens have become one of the most important places for pollinators to find food and shelter. Even a small garden or a few containers can make a meaningful impact.
That’s where your garden comes in!
Native Plants vs. Native Cultivars (Nativars)
This is where a lot of people get confused, so here’s the clear breakdown:
What Are Native Plants?
Native plants are species that naturally grow in a specific region and have adapted alongside local wildlife.
Examples in New Jersey:
- Milkweed
- Coneflower
- Black-eyed Susan
- Bee balm
These plants:
- Provide the best nectar and pollen sources
- Support specialist pollinators
- Fit naturally into the local ecosystem
What Are Native Cultivars (Nativars)?
Native cultivars, often called nativars, are human-selected or bred versions of native plants. They’re usually chosen for:
- Color variations
- Compact growth
- Extended bloom time
- Uniform appearance
The Key Difference:
Native plants = naturally occurring, best ecological support
Nativars = altered versions of natives, sometimes helpful, sometimes less beneficial
Not all nativars are bad! BUT some changes (especially flower shape or color) can:
- Reduce nectar availability
- Make it harder for pollinators to access pollen
Rule of thumb:
If your goal is maximum pollinator support, lean toward true native species first.
Our Favorite Pollinator Plants for New Jersey:
Here’s a select mix of true natives and commonly available nativars, so you can choose what works best for your space.
Native Perennials for Pollinators
Milkweed (Asclepias) — Native
Essential for monarch butterflies, serving as both a nectar source and the only host plant for their caterpillars
Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) — Native
Long bloom time with sturdy petals that make it easy for bees and butterflies to land and feed
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia) — Native
Reliable summer color that thrives in tough conditions while consistently attracting pollinators
Bee Balm (Monarda didyma / fistulosa) — Native
A standout for hummingbirds and bees, with fragrant foliage and vibrant, nectar-rich blooms
Blazing Star (Liatris spicata) — Native
Tall purple spikes that draw in butterflies and add vertical interest to any pollinator garden
Goldenrod (Solidago) — Native
One of the most important late-season nectar sources, helping pollinators prepare for fall
Aster (Symphyotrichum) — Native
Provides critical blooms in late summer through fall when many other plants have faded
Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium) — Native
A taller option with soft pink blooms that butterflies absolutely love
Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata) — Native
Bright, easy-to-grow flowers that kick off early-season color and attract smaller pollinators
Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) — Native
A more natural-looking relative of bee balm, highly beneficial for native bees and pollinators
Native Trees & Shrubs
Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) — Native
One of the first trees to bloom in spring, providing early nectar when pollinators need it most
Serviceberry (Amelanchier) — Native
Delicate spring flowers followed by berries that support birds and wildlife
Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) — Native
Unique spherical blooms that are highly attractive to bees and butterflies
Oak Trees (Quercus) — Native
A powerhouse plant that supports hundreds of insect species and entire ecosystems
Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata) — Native
Bright red berries add winter interest while supporting birds
Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) — Native
A host plant for swallowtail butterflies with soft yellow spring blooms
Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia) — Native
Fragrant summer flowers that draw in pollinators during peak season
Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) — Native
Hardy and adaptable with clusters of pollinator-friendly blooms
Viburnum (native varieties) — Native
Provides both flowers and berries for multi-season interest
Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) — Native
Late-season blooms that extend food sources into fall
Pollinator-Friendly Annuals
Zinnias — Non-native annual
Bright, long-lasting blooms that butterflies flock to all summer
Cosmos — Non-native annual
Light, airy flowers that are easy for pollinators to access
Sunflowers — Non-native annual (commonly sold types)
Large blooms that provide both nectar and seeds later in the season
Lantana — Non-native annual
A heat-loving plant that continuously blooms and attracts butterflies
Alyssum — Non-native annual
Low-growing and fragrant, perfect for edging and attracting small pollinators
Salvia (annual varieties) — Non-native annual
Excellent for hummingbirds thanks to their tubular flowers
Marigolds — Non-native annual
Easy color that can help support pollinators while also deterring pests
Cleome (Spider Flower) — Non-native annual
Tall, unique blooms that add height and attract pollinators
Verbena — Non-native annual
Long-blooming and great for butterflies
Tithonia (Mexican Sunflower) — Non-native annual
A standout pollinator plant with bold orange blooms
Native Cultivars (Nativars) to Know
Echinacea ‘White Swan’ — Nativar
A color variation of coneflower that can still support pollinators
Rudbeckia ‘Goldsturm’ — Nativar
A popular, compact version of black-eyed Susan
Monarda ‘Jacob Cline’ — Nativar
Known for strong color and mildew resistance
Joe Pye Weed ‘Little Joe’ — Nativar
A shorter option for smaller spaces without losing pollinator appeal
Coreopsis ‘Moonbeam’ — Nativar
Soft yellow blooms with a longer flowering period
Ninebark ‘Diablo’ — Nativar
Grown more for foliage color but still provides some ecological value
Rudbeckia ‘Indian Summer’ — Nativar
Larger blooms with a more dramatic appearance
Phlox ‘Jeana’ — Nativar
Notable for being especially attractive to pollinators
Milkweed ‘Cinderella’ — Nativar
A cultivated version of swamp milkweed with strong pollinator support
Liatris ‘Kobold’ — Nativar
Compact and garden-friendly while still attracting butterflies
Note: Not all nativars are equal. The closer the plant is to its original native form, especially in flower shape, the more beneficial it typically is for pollinators.
How to Build a Pollinator Garden
- Plant in groups or clusters for easier access
- Choose a mix of plants that bloom from spring through fall
- Avoid pesticides whenever possible
- Mix plant heights and flower types
- Include host plants like milkweed
Why We Focus on Native Plants
Through our partnership with the Native Plant Society of New Jersey, we’re continuing to expand our selection of native plants and bring more education to our customers.
You’ll see more native options, more learning opportunities, and more ways to build gardens that truly support local ecosystems!
Pollinator Gardening in New Jersey FAQ:
What is the best plant for pollinators in New Jersey?
Milkweed is one of the most important, but a mix of native plants provides the best support overall.
Are nativars okay to plant?
Yes, but true native plants typically provide the most benefit. Choose nativars with simple, accessible flower shapes when possible.
Can I still use annuals?
Absolutely. They help extend bloom time and add color while still supporting pollinators.
Do I need a big garden?
Not at all. Even small spaces or containers can support pollinators.
When should I plant?
Spring and early fall are ideal, but many plants can be added throughout the season.
Featured Pollinator Plants:
Quick Summary
Native plants provide the strongest support for pollinators
Nativars can still play a role when chosen carefully
Annuals help extend bloom and color
Any size garden can make an impact
Stop In & Start Planting
If you’re looking to build a pollinator-friendly garden in New Jersey, we’re here to help you choose the right plants for your space.
Visit Bast Brothers Garden Center to explore our selection and get personalized recommendations.
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Bast Brothers Garden Center
Bast Brothers Garden Center is a family owned and operated establishment. Owner-operator Bert Bast works alongside his wife, Allison Bast, to curate a unique assortment of locally grown annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, and indoor plants. Bert and his brothers and father refurbished the garden center and barn after purchasing the property in September 2014, while Allie runs marketing and buying operations.
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