
In 2020, we began transitioning the landscape around our 118 Cliff Road office to a native plant garden, to help educate the public about the importance and beauty of native plants and boost the ecological value of our office landscape. A generous grant from the Nantucket Garden Club allowed us to include educational signage throughout the meadow and garden beds. We encourage you to stop by the NCF office to see how native plants could be a great addition to your home landscaping projects, but if you can't make it out please find a virtual tour of our native biodiversity meadow below.

What is a Native Plant?
Native plants are species that are indigenous to the island. Having grown and evolved here for thousands of years, native plants are well-adapted to living in Nantucket’s coastal habitats and have formed complex and interdependent relationships with the island’s wildlife. Some native plants are aggressive growers, such as grape and scrub oak, but they are key dominant plants in local ecosystems.
Non-native plants are those that have been introduced to an area by humans, either intentionally or accidentally. Over time, these plants can expand their range without human interference. They are also called exotic, alien, or non-indigenous plants. Some of these non-native plants become serious problems, diminishing native plant diversity and harming wildlife across the island - but you can help by keeping native plants in your yard!
Reasons to Choose Native Plants:
- Save Water - Native plants are adapted to the local climate and site conditions
- Save Time - Less maintenance is required with native plants once established
- Reduce Pesticide Use - Native plants have developed their own defenses against many pests and diseases
- Enhance Wildlife Habitat - Provide shelter and high quality food for native wildlife
Upcoming Ecology Excursions on Native Plants:
Native Plant Landscaping Tour