Discover the Top 10 Native Flowers in Michigan and 10 Tropical Flowers You Didn't Know Could Thrive in Michigan by She Is GR Co!

Welcome to the natural collection of She is GR Co, your go-to one-person florist bringing the beauty of Michigan's native flowers and unique tropical varieties to West Michigan. In this blog post, we'll explore the top 10 most popular native Michigan flowers, delving into their origins and sharing some fascinating facts. Additionally, discover 10 exotic flowers, including tropical gems like banana flower, moon flower, and white hibiscus, that you might not know can thrive in our climate in Michigan. Please keep in mind that most tropical varieties need to be repotted and brought inside before the first frost. If you have enough window space indoors- let's explore some fun options!

Native Michigan Flowers:

• Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum): Originating in the eastern part of the United States, Trillium is Michigan's state wildflower, known for its three-petaled, white bloom.

• Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis): Native to Europe but flourishing in Michigan, this fragrant flower is a symbol of luck and happiness.

• Showy Lady's Slipper (Cypripedium reginae): A rare and protected orchid native to Michigan, recognized by its distinctive pink slipper-shaped bloom.

• Michigan Lily (Lilium michiganense): Resembling a Turk's cap, the Michigan Lily boasts vibrant orange petals and is found in meadows and open woods.

• Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis): With its drooping, red and yellow flowers, the Wild Columbine is a favorite among hummingbirds and originates from eastern North America.

• Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): Native to the central and eastern United States, this daisy-like flower is not only beautiful but also believed to have medicinal properties.

• Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis): Known for its striking pink and purple blossoms, the Eastern Redbud is native to the Midwest and Eastern United States.

• Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): A cheerful, golden-yellow flower that thrives in Michigan's gardens and meadows.

• Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa): Also known as Wild Bergamot, Bee Balm attracts pollinators with its lavender-colored blooms and is native to North America.

• Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum): This unique flower, resembling a preacher in a pulpit, is native to the deciduous forests of Michigan.

Honorable She Is GR Mentions: My Top favorite Picks

• Solidago - Golden Rod

• Torch Lily- Red Hot Pokers

• Liatris- Blazing stars

• Agapanthus- Lily of the Nile

• Dahlia-Asteraceae

• Foxglove-Digitalis purpurea

• Queen Ann's Lace- Wild Carrot

• Baptisia- Blue False Indigo

• Apple Mint Flower- Mentha suaveolens

• Forsythia-In the Olive family

Exotic Flowers Thriving in Michigan:

• Banana Flower (Musa): Surprisingly, banana plants can thrive in Michigan during the warmer months, producing beautiful and unique banana flowers.

• Moon Flower (Ipomoea alba): A night-blooming beauty, the moon flower unfurls its fragrant, large white blooms in the evening.

• White Hibiscus (Hibiscus arnottianus): While typically associated with tropical climates, certain white hibiscus varieties can thrive in Michigan's gardens, adding an exotic touch.

• Orange Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae): Known for its striking resemblance to a bird in flight, the Bird of Paradise can be cultivated indoors or in sheltered outdoor spaces.

• Plumeria (Plumeria spp.): With its fragrant and vibrant blooms, plumeria, also known as frangipani, can be grown in containers in Michigan and brought indoors during colder months.

• Ginger Lily (Hedychium spp.): These tropical beauties, with their lush foliage and fragrant flowers, can add a touch of the tropics to your Michigan garden.

• Bromeliads (Bromeliaceae family): These colorful and unique plants, including varieties like the Aechmea and Neoregalia, can thrive as potted plants in Michigan.

• Heliconia (Heliconia spp.): Also known as lobster claw or wild plantain, heliconia's vibrant and exotic blooms can be a stunning addition to your garden.

• Tacca Chantrieri (Black Bat Flower): A truly unique and rare tropical flower, the Black Bat Flower boasts dark, intricate blooms that resemble a bat in flight. Growing this exotic flower in Michigan is sure to turn heads.

• Kadupul Flower (Epiphyllum oxypetalum): Nicknamed the "Queen of the Night," this rare and fragrant flower blooms only at night, creating a magical atmosphere in your Michigan garden.

Honorable She Is GR Mentions: My Top favorite Tropical Picks:

• Pink Snow Berries

• Bartzella Yellow Peonies

• Stachys Byzantina - Lamb's Ear Flower

• Japanese Peony Varieties

• Calla Lilies

• White Bird Of Paradise

• Anthurium- Lace Leaf

If you have any specialty plants that you are looking for in Spring/Summer 2024 Please email me your list with Plant names, Container size & style preference! I would be happy to put together a quote for you & Add you to Next year's Spring List! Spring is a busy time so make sure to get your quote in before the end of February!