Native Plants in the Landscape: Debate and Balance

A reader's question about subdivision covenants requiring "plants native to the southeastern U.S." sparked lively debate. Proponents argue natives are adapted, support wildlife, and define regional identity (e.g., dogwood, redbud, serviceberry vs. Bradford pear). Critics note that strict native-only rules would ban common turfgrasses (fescue, bermuda, zoysia) and many well-adapted exotics.

Walter Reeves' take: Most suburban covenants don't literally forbid lawn grasses. "Native" is often interpreted loosely as "grows well here." The best landscapes blend well-behaved natives and non-natives for beauty, function, and ecology.

Resources: Georgia Native Plant Society for expert plant recommendations.