Native Trees for Wetland Mitigation: Red Maple & Split Beard Bluestem

Wetland mitigation—creating, restoring, or enhancing wetlands to offset permitted losses—relies on carefully selected native plants. Wholesale nurseries like TN Nursery supply species suited to these ecologically sensitive projects.

Project Types

• Creation: Establishing wetlands on upland sites via grading to increase saturation.
• Restoration: Reestablishing wetlands on former sites.
• Enhancement: Improving function of existing wetlands (e.g., planting farmed wetlands).
• Stream Restoration: Stabilizing banks, restoring natural meanders.

Featured Mitigation Species

Red Rocket Red Maple (Acer rubrum 'Red Rocket')

Fast-growing, oval-crowned tree reaching 60–70 ft tall with 23–35 ft spread. Brilliant multi-hued fall color (red, orange, yellow) lasting weeks. Tolerates wet soils, making it ideal for buffer strips, median plantings, and residential streets in northern to mild southern climates.

Split Beard Bluestem (Andropogon ternarius)

Warm-season perennial bunchgrass to 5 ft tall with striking silvery-white seed heads resembling fireworks. Purple-hairy sheaths, curly mature blades. Provides wildlife cover and food (seeds browsed by birds, mammals, deer, rabbits). Native to southeastern U.S.; thrives in moist, open areas.

Both species exemplify the dual role of mitigation plants: ecological function and aesthetic value. Consult a native plant nursery for site-specific recommendations.