Summary of 5 Native Black Flowers for Home Gardens in the US:
This article discusses five native US plant species with black flowers. The article highlights the importance of color balance in gardens and suggests incorporating these black flowers for added diversity. The featured plants include Penny Black, Green Wizard Coneflower, Chocolate Lily or Mission Bells, Black Lily or Wild Rice, and Iris ‘Black Gamecock.’ The article provides information on each plant’s origins, characteristics, and growing conditions.
5 Native Black Flowers for Stunning Home Gardens in the US
Adding pops of color to your home garden is always a good idea. Experts suggest incorporating a range of flower varieties and hues to create the perfect balance. One unique and captivating way to add diversity to your garden is by incorporating native black flowers. Not only are these flowers stunning, but they also have the added benefit of being native to the US. This article will explore five native black flowers that will enliven your home garden.
1. Penny Black
Native to California and Oregon, the Penny Black is a delicate annual perfect for rockeries, borders, and hanging baskets. With low-growing and spreading characteristics, it forms a beautiful ground cover. The foliage of the Penny Black is thick and brilliantly green, which makes the rich purple-colored petals stand out even more. Although the blooms appear black due to the white border and core, the flowers are 2cm wide with scalloped petals. Penny Blacks thrive in full to partial light and require well-drained soil. They bloom from June through August and are relatively trouble-free, making them a great addition to any home garden.
2. Green Wizard Coneflower
Originating from Washington to California and Wyoming to Montana, the Green Wizard Coneflower is a stunning black flower that attracts attention wherever it grows. This perennial flower thrives in full sun and average moisture, making it relatively easy to care for. It requires well-drained soil and values good air movement. Deadheading spent flowers is recommended to stimulate more blooms. Unlike other rudbeckias, the Green Wizard Coneflower does not tolerate drought well. Starting the seed germination indoors in late February to early March yields the best results. In ideal conditions, the plants may even self-seed in the garden, adding a touch of black beauty year after year.
3. Chocolate Lily or Mission Bells
If you’re looking for a unique black flower, the Chocolate Lily or Mission Bells is perfect. Found in California, this bulbous herbaceous perennial grows up to 60 cm tall and is often found in chaparral and woodlands. The flowers of the Chocolate Lily can resemble chocolate, but they can also appear in dark shades of greenish-purple or yellowish-green. This beautiful flower is a sight, blooming in March and April. However, it is important not to mistake it for Arthropodium strictum, another “chocolate lily” with a chocolate-scented fragrance lacking dark coloration.
4. Black Lily or Wild Rice
The Fritillaria camschatcensis, also known as the Kamchatka fritillary, wild rice, or northern rice root, is another captivating black flower native to Alaska, Washington, and Oregon. This lowland to subalpine perennial forb thrives in wet-tide flats, meadows, open woods, rocky beaches, and stream banks. Coastal Native Americans consumed this plant’s bulbs, despite their bitter taste. The bulbs were broken up and soaked in multiple water changes to eliminate the bitterness. They were often cooked and eaten with oil or fat, added to soups and stews, or dried and stored in oil for the winter. The bulbs were also dried and ground into flour. The Black Lily or Wild Rice is a genuinely fascinating and versatile plant.
5. Iris ‘Black Gamecock’
Originating from Louisiana to Maine, the Iris ‘Black Gamecock’ is a water-loving plant that can thrive in as little as 4 inches of water. This particular iris cultivar boasts 4″ to 6″ flowers with deep purple petals and a bright gold stripe. It is an award-winning cultivar that is stunning and relatively easy to grow. Under appropriate growth conditions, these plants develop quickly. Contrary to its name, the Louisiana iris can be found as far north as Maine, making it a versatile option for home gardens across various climates.
Adding native black flowers to your home garden is a unique way to incorporate stunning color and diversity. From the delicate Penny Black to the captivating Chocolate Lily and Black Lily, there’s something for every gardener’s taste. The Green Wizard Coneflower and Iris ‘Black Gamecock’ add charm to any garden. So, why not experiment with these unique and fascinating black flowers to create a truly stunning and captivating home garden?
