Special Attributes

Host plant to moths and butterflies (Lepidoptera).
Many Lepidoptera larvae (caterpillars) can only feed on certain plants – and plants that host a higher number of caterpillars are particularly valuable for wildlife. This is especially true for our declinding songbirds, over 90% of which rely on caterpillars and other insects to successfully raise their young. Many other animals also benefit from a higher volume of insects in the local ecosystem.

Special value to pollinators.
These plants are particularly attractive to a wide range of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, wasps, hummingbirds, flies, and even ants and beetles.
Some plants may also have this designation if they are host to specialist pollinators, which rely on only a few plants to survive. Specialist pollinators are often more efficient at pollinating their host plants, as they spend more time pollinating only one or several species.

Deer Resistant.
These plants generally resist browsing from deer and other mammalian herbivores.
Please note that deer and other animals may still sometimes eat plants that are unpalatable if they are hungry enough. Physical barriers are ultimately the best way to stop our hungry four-legged friends from feeding on plants.

Special value to birds.
Native plants are the foundation on which birds survive – and they need all the help they can get. It is estimated that birds have declined by nearly 3 billion in the past 50 years, which is nearly a third of all birds.
Plants with this attribute provide special known services to birds – they may be an important berry or seed source, or provide important shelter where birds can raise young or seek protection from predators.

Attracts hummingbirds.
These plants are pollinated in-part by hummingbirds and will attract them to your yard.
Flowers that are tubular and have no “perching” stem or structure are likely visited by hummingbirds, as these incredible birds hover when collecting nectar and have a long bill and tongue specially suited to tube-shaped flowers.
A red flower color is also a hint that a plant is likely hummingbird-pollinated, as only birds and a few butterflies can detect the color red.

Provides cover for wildlife.
Animals need a safe place to hide from predators, to raise their young, and to seek refuge during times of inclement weather.
Plants with this attribute are known for providing this invaluable service for wildlife.

Regional genotype.
Plants with this designation were grown from seed ethically collected from stable local plant populations, meaning they are well-adapted to our local growing conditions (Kentuckiana’s unique micro-climate, geography, soil, etc.), further ensuring plant success.
ReSeed only collects seed and will never dig plants from the wild.

Edible.
These plants are widely known as edible to humans, either via their fruit, stems, leaves, or other plant part. I do not include medicinal plants under this designation.
Never consume any plant part without being 100% sure of its edibility. Assume most plants have some level of toxicity until you know for sure.