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variety of flowers growing in a yard

Flowers & Ornamental

Everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of flowers and ornamental plants with some simple recommendations.

Left: Blade of sweetgrass. Right: Patch of white sagebrush.

Sweetgrass and White Sagebrush: Native Plants with Medicinal Uses

Many native prairie plants have been used medicinally for generations by the Indigenous peoples of the Northern Great Plains. Sweetgrass and white sagebrush are hardy perennials that have a variety of uses and deep historical significance.

Prairie pasque flowers blooming in early spring.

Native Plant Resources for South Dakota

As we continue to see the benefits of growing native plants in cultivated landscapes, finding the right plant for the right place requires the right resources. Learn about some available native plant sources, educational materials, and organizations serving our region.

A nest of Asian Needle Ants.

No Documented Sightings of Asian Needle Ants in South Dakota

Despite reports from major news networks citing that Asian needle ants are in South Dakota, we have no evidence that the ant is established or has ever been documented in the state.

Poinsettia relatives: Euphorbia horrida, crown of thorns, and Euphorbia polychrome.

The Poinsettia and Its Relatives: Exploring Unique Euphorbia Species

Euphorbias are versatile plants, with species suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments. Whether used as decorative houseplants, or as garden perennials, these plants offer a unique aesthetic, and require minimal care.

Poinsettia plant in a dimly lit living room.

Keeping Your Poinsettia Alive for Next Christmas and Getting It to Re-Bloom

With proper care, the poinsettia’s vibrant colors can be maintained throughout the year. Learn some tips tfor keeping poinsettias thriving and blooming again for the next holiday season.

Cluster of bright-red poinsettia flowers in bloom.

Are You Photoperiodic? Poinsettias Are: An Explanation of This Unique Plant Process

Poinsettias are photoperiodic, which means they rely on cues from nature, like the shortening day or night, to change how they grow. Learn all about this unique plant process and how it helps Poinsettias bloom and re-bloom.

A patch of Sweet Woodruff in bloom in a garden.

Sweet Woodruff: Attractive Groundcover for Shady Gardens

Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum) is an attractive plant that makes a finely textured ground-cover perennial for shade gardens.

A green plant with spire-like white and pink flowers.

Lupines for Northern Gardens

Lupines (Lupinus), a genus of plants in the legume family Fabaceae, are popular plants in the United States. In addition to their aesthetic value, lupines provide a variety of benefits to the garden.