There are several popular plants in Maryland that are sought after by gardeners, landscapers, and homeowners. The first plant that comes to mind is the Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), also known as the Maryland State flower. This plant is loved for its bright yellow flowers with dark centers, which bloom in the summer and fall. Black-eyed Susans are easy to grow, low maintenance, and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
The next popular plant in Maryland is the Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis). This small tree is loved for its stunning pinkish-purple flowers, which bloom in early spring, before the leaves emerge. The Eastern Redbud has a unique branching pattern, with twisted and contorted branches that add interest to any landscape. This tree is also deer-resistant and tolerates a wide range of soil types, making it a great choice for Maryland gardens.
Another popular plant in Maryland is the Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata). This groundcover produces a carpet of colorful flowers in the spring, ranging from white to pink, purple, and blue. Creeping Phlox is a great solution for areas with poor soil or steep slopes, as it can tolerate these conditions and help control erosion. This plant is also low-growing, so it is perfect for the front of borders or rock gardens.
Lastly, the Hydrangea (Hydrangea spp.) is a favorite among Maryland gardeners. This popular shrub comes in many varieties, including the iconic mophead (bigleaf) hydrangeas with their large, round clusters of pink, blue, or white flowers. Hydrangeas add a stunning visual display to any garden, and they are also relatively easy to grow. They prefer partial shade and moist, well-drained soils.
Overall, these popular plants in Maryland offer a range of colors, textures, and sizes to suit any garden or landscape. Whether you prefer show-stopping flowers or low-maintenance groundcovers, there is a plant on this list that will suit your needs.
| Plant Name | Description | Habitat |
| Eastern Redbud | A small, deciduous tree with showy, pink-to-lavender flowers in early spring. | Woodlands, forest edges, and along streams and rivers. |
| Mountain Laurel | A medium-sized evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of small, white-to-pink flowers in late spring. | Rocky slopes and wooded areas in the mountains and piedmont regions. |
| Black-eyed Susan | A herbaceous perennial with yellow-to-orange flowers and a dark brown center. | Open fields, meadows, and along roadsides throughout the state. |
| Pawpaw | A small, deciduous tree with large, green leaves and edible fruits with a custard-like consistency. | Floodplains, bottomlands, and other moist habitats in the eastern and central parts of the state. |
The Most Popular Plants in Maryland (Factsheet)
For those looking to dig deeper and learn more about the most popular plants in Maryland, there are several resources available:
- Maryland Department of Agriculture: The Maryland Department of Agriculture has a wealth of information on the state’s agriculture and horticulture industries. Their website provides resources on plant identification, pest and disease management, and much more.
- University of Maryland Extension: The University of Maryland Extension offers a variety of programs and resources on gardening and horticulture, including classes, workshops, and publications. Their website also includes a list of recommended plants for Maryland gardens.
- Maryland Native Plant Society: The Maryland Native Plant Society is dedicated to the conservation and protection of Maryland’s native plant species. Their website offers information on native plants, gardening with natives, and upcoming events and programs.
- National Arboretum: The National Arboretum is located in nearby Washington, DC, and is home to a vast collection of plants from around the world. They offer guided tours and educational programming for visitors of all ages.
By exploring these resources, Maryland gardeners can learn more about the plants that thrive in our state, and how to care for them to ensure healthy and beautiful gardens.
In order to access comprehensive materials related to Popular Plants, we suggest referring to the US Online Directories and references mentioned earlier.
