What are Native Plants?

Native plants are plants that grew naturally in the pre-settlement grasslands and forests of Montana. Shortgrass prairie developed over much of central and eastern Montana more than 10,000 years ago after the retreat of glaciers. This ecosystem included grasses, shrubs, trees, flowering plants, insects, and other animals adapted to survive a wide range of conditions ranging from hot and dry to cold and moist. On the plains, much of the prairie sod has disappeared because of the conversion to agricultural production following settlement.

Lupine (left) and blanket flower (right).

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Last Modified: 07/05/2007