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June 16, 2025 |  By: Gavin McGough

Nativars - The Superheros of plants

Purple coneflower "Magnus," a popular nativar. Photo by Elvert Barnes, shared under a Creative Commons (BY) license.

©  — Curators of the University of Missouri. All rights reserved.

Coined by University of Georgia horticulturist Allan Armitage, the word is a mash up of 'native,' and 'cultivar,' and it describes hybrid forms of native plant species. Many plants familiar to us, from peonies to roses are non-native to our landscape. Native plants such as milkweed and asters ARE from here - and gardeners are increasingly interested in growing these species as they are naturally well-suited to Missouri's environment and serve the needs of local pollinators.

Some gardeners, however, miss the ornamental qualities, jumbo flowers, and bright colors of more traditional garden plants. A nativar combines the best of both worlds. It offer the benefits of native plants but has been bred selectively for aesthetic qualities.

The University of Missouri Extension encourages curious gardners to give nativars a try! You can find out more and see photos of these blooms at the University's website.