Alaska Native Plants, State Flower, and State Bird

It will come as no surprise to gardeners that Alaska is home to some pretty different native plants than the rest of the contiguous United States!

Here are a few wildflowers that we carry that have native range in Alaska:

Common White Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Globe Gilia (Gilia capitata)

Fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium)

Note - native perennials are not listed, as the United States Department of Agriculture does not permit shipping of live plants or bulbs outside the contiguous US. We can ship wildflower seeds, seed packets, and hard goods to Alaska.

Willow Ptarmigan ~ Lagopus lagopus
Found in all parts of Alaska, the Willow Ptarmigan remains in the northland all year, and does not migrate south as so many other birds do. Fully adapted to the north country, it turns snow white as camouflage in winter and has fluffy feathers on its legs that both help keep it warm and also serve as snowshoes. In the spring, this ground-nesting bird acquires a brown plumage which allows it to blend with the Alaskan tundra.

Forget-Me-Not ~ Myosotis alpestris
Growing all over Alaska, this deep blue flower with a yellow-eyed center has hairy leaves and curled flower heads. The Alpine Forget-Me-Not was designated the official state flower of Alaska because it is thought to be a flower of constancy and perseverance.

From The Wildflowers of the 50 States U.S. stamps issued July 24, 1992:

• Native plants are essential for healthy ecosystems and habitat. They have evolved over time with local wildlife and climate conditions. Many pollinators have special relationships with native plants that they rely on for survival. For instance, some bees are specialists and require nectar and pollen from specific native plants to survive; and butterflies and moths often have specific host plants needed to nourish their caterpillars. For example, Asclepias (Milkweed or Butterfly Weed) is the host plant required for Monarch caterpillars to survive and grow into Monarch Butterflies!
• It’s OK to grow native plants in your yard that may not be native to your state or region. Remember – just because a plant is not native, does not necessarily mean that it is invasive or harmful. In fact, growing well-behaved introduced plants that are suited to your growing conditions can still provide many benefits to your yard (especially when compared to a traditional turf lawn).  
• Know before you grow – It's always a good idea to learn what plants are native, well-behaved, and invasive or aggressive in your region before digging in.
• Learn More: All About Native Plants

Explore our full selection of native plants and seeds