Colorado is home to a diverse range of flora, thanks to the state’s varied terrain and climate. From alpine meadows to arid deserts, there are countless plant species that call Colorado home. However, there are a few standout plants that are particularly popular among Coloradans. Here are some of the most popular plants in Colorado:
1. Columbine: The state flower of Colorado, the columbine is a beautiful and iconic wildflower that blooms in late spring and early summer. With its unique shape and vibrant colors, the columbine is a favorite of gardeners and hikers alike. There are several different species of columbine that can be found throughout the state, each with its own distinctive features.
2. Colorado blue spruce: Arguably the most iconic tree in Colorado, the Colorado blue spruce is an evergreen conifer that is prized for its striking blue-gray needles and conical shape. It’s a popular choice for landscaping, and is often used as a windbreak or privacy screen. In the wild, Colorado blue spruce can be found in mountainous areas and along streams and rivers.
3. Aspen: Known for their beautiful golden leaves in the fall, aspen trees are among the most beloved plants in Colorado. They’re also the most widely distributed tree species in North America, and can be found throughout the state. Aspen are often used in landscaping as ornamental trees, and their wood is prized for its beauty and durability.
4. Yucca: A common sight in Colorado’s mountains and deserts, yucca plants are known for their striking, sword-like leaves and tall flower spikes. They’re drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making them a popular choice for xeriscaping (landscaping with plants that require little water). Notably, yucca plants are also an important part of the diet of yucca moths, which are the only insects that can pollinate the plant’s flowers.
5. Coneflower: Also known as echinacea, coneflowers are a popular choice for gardens and landscaping in Colorado. They’re a hardy, low-maintenance plant that produces vibrant purple, pink, and white flowers. Coneflowers are also believed to have medicinal properties, and are often used in herbal supplements and teas.
These are just a few of the many popular plants that can be found in Colorado. Whether you’re an avid gardener or simply enjoy spending time outdoors, there’s no shortage of beautiful flora to explore in this state.
The Most Popular Plants in Colorado (Factsheet)
| Plant Name | Description | Habitat |
| Aspen | A deciduous tree with distinctive white bark and large, rounded leaves that turn golden-yellow in the fall. | Throughout Colorado; grows at higher elevations on moist, well-drained soils. |
| Columbine | The state flower of Colorado, with distinctive blue and white petals on a delicate stem. | Typically found in mountain meadows and along wooded streams. |
| Sagebrush | A shrub with gray-green leaves and a pungent aroma, often found in the high desert of western Colorado. | Common in dry, open areas with well-drained soils. |
| Ponderosa Pine | A tall evergreen tree with long, needle-like leaves and distinctive pale orange bark. | Found at lower elevations across much of Colorado, often on drier sites. |
| Rocky Mountain Juniper | A low-growing evergreen shrub or small tree with blue-gray needles and berry-like cones. | Found in rocky, high-elevation areas with well-drained soils. |
If you would like to learn more about the most popular plants in Colorado, there are some references you can explore. Here are a few:
- The Colorado State Extension website has a helpful page with information on Colorado plant recommendations for various regions and habitats. You can find it at https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/plant-talk/.
- The Colorado Native Plant Society is another great resource if you are interested in learning about native plant species in the state. Check out their website at https://conps.org/.
- If you are interested in learning about gardening in Colorado, the book “The Colorado Gardener’s Companion” by Jodi Torpey might be worth checking out. It covers a range of topics related to Colorado gardening, including plant recommendations and tips for dealing with the state’s unique climate and soil conditions.
- The Denver Botanic Gardens is a great place to see a variety of Colorado plants in person and learn more about them. You can find their website at https://www.botanicgardens.org/.
These resources should give you a good starting point if you want to dig deeper into the most popular plants in Colorado. Whether you are an avid gardener or simply enjoy spending time in nature, exploring the plants that thrive in this unique state can be a rewarding experience.
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