Calgary’s climate can be tough on traditional garden plants. The cold winters, dry summers, and unpredictable weather swings, cause ornamental species to struggle to survive. That’s where native plants come in.
Native plants—species that have evolved in Alberta’s natural environment—are uniquely adapted to Calgary’s soil, moisture levels, and temperature extremes. The result is a garden that requires less water, less maintenance, and provides essential habitat for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
If you’re looking to create a resilient, eco-friendly garden, here are some of the best native plants to grow in Calgary.
Why Choose Native Plants?
Before diving into specific plants, it’s worth understanding why native species are such a smart choice:
Drought-tolerant once established
Low maintenance (less fertilizer and watering needed)
Supports local wildlife, including pollinators and birds
Adapted to Calgary’s climate and soil conditions
Planting native is one of the easiest ways to create a sustainable yard.
Best Native Plants for Full Sun
Calgary gets plenty of sunshine, making full-sun plants a great starting point.
1. Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea)
A striking plant with vibrant purple flower spikes, this species blooms from early to mid-summer and is a favourite among native bees.
2. Blue Flax (Linum lewisii)
These delicate blue flowers and slender stems make an elegant addition to any garden. It blooms throughout summer and attracts pollinators.
3. Blanket Flower (Gaillardia aristata)
Known for its red and yellow daisy-like blooms, this drought-tolerant plant flowers from late summer into fall.
4. Prairie Coneflower (Ratibida columnifera)
This unique plant features a tall cone-shaped centre surrounded by yellow petals, perfect for prairie-style gardens.
5. Yarrow (Achillea borealis)
A hardy, easy-to-grow plant with clusters of white flowers. It thrives in dry conditions and blooms all summer long.
Best Native Plants for Partial Shade
If your garden gets mixed sunlight, these plants perform beautifully.
6. Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)
A standout with fragrant purple blooms, wild bergamot is excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds.
7. Giant Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum)
This tall plant produces spikes of purple flowers and is a magnet for pollinators.
8. Harebell (Campanula alaskana)
With delicate blue bell-shaped flowers, harebell is perfect for borders and smaller spaces.
9. Slender Beardtongue (Penstemon procerus)
Compact and elegant, this plant produces tubular flowers ideal for pollinators.
Best Native Plants for Shade
Shadier areas can still thrive with the right native species.
10. Early Blue Violet (Viola adunca)
One of the earliest bloomers in spring, this low-growing plant is great for ground cover.
11. Tall Lungwort (Mertensia paniculata)
Produces clusters of blue flowers and thrives in cooler, shaded environments.
12. Showy Aster (Eurybia conspicua)
A late-season bloomer that adds colour to your fall garden while supporting pollinators.
Tips for Success with Native Plants
To get the most out of your Calgary native garden:
Match plants to conditions: Consider sun exposure, soil type, and moisture levels
Plant for continuous blooms: Choose species that flower from spring through fall
Water during the first year: Native plants need time to establish roots
Embrace natural growth: Native gardens can look more “wild” which is part of their beauty
Once established, many native plants only need watering during extended dry periods.
Where to Find Native Plants
Local nurseries specializing in Alberta-native species are your best bet. For example, ALCLA Native Plants offers a wide variety of locally sourced plants and seeds adapted specifically to the Calgary region.
Planting native species is a practical, sustainable way to work with Calgary’s environment instead of against it. With the right plant choices, you can create a beautiful yard that supports wildlife, conserves water, and thrives year after year.