The Northwestern United States, home to a rich array of ecosystems from coastal rainforests to high desert, faces numerous challenges due to climate change and human activity. To conserve its unique biodiversity, it’s crucial to focus on preserving and nurturing its endangered plant species. Here are the top ten endangered species to plant in the Northwestern US and where you can obtain them.

1. Showy Stickseed (Hackelia venusta)

The Showy Stickseed is an endangered perennial herb native to the state of Washington. It thrives in sunny, well-drained soils. With beautiful blue flowers, this plant is both aesthetically pleasing and beneficial for native insect populations.

Where to get them: Consult local conservation programs, such as the Washington Native Plant Society for information on accessing seeds or seedlings.

2. Ute Ladies’-tresses (Spiranthes diluvialis)

The Ute Ladies’-tresses is an orchid species that has been classified as threatened due to habitat loss. It thrives in wet meadows and riverine habitats and blooms fragrant white flowers in late summer.

Where to get them: Reach out to the Oregon Native Plant Society or local botanical gardens for advice on acquiring and planting this unique orchid.

3. Water Howellia (Howellia aquatilis)

Water Howellia is an aquatic plant that grows in vernal pools. The plant has adapted to growing underwater for part of the year, producing beautiful white flowers when it emerges.

Where to get them: As an aquatic species, it is typically cultivated by specialized nurseries. Check with your local plant conservation programs for recommendations.

4. MacFarlane’s Four-O’Clock (Mirabilis macfarlanei)

This plant is unique to the region, found only in a few locations in Idaho and Oregon. With lovely purple flowers that bloom in the late afternoon, this plant is a charming addition to any garden.

Where to get them: Reach out to the Idaho Native Plant Society or the Oregon Native Plant Society for guidance on acquiring seeds or seedlings.

5. Western Lily (Lilium occidentale)

Once prevalent along the coastal regions of the Northwestern US, the Western Lily is now endangered. Its striking trumpet-shaped flowers make it a desirable choice for those looking to support endangered plant life.

Where to get them: Consult with local conservation organizations or botanical gardens for availability.

6. Cooke’s Lousewort (Pedicularis contorta)

This endangered perennial herb is found in the high alpine meadows of the Northwest. Cooke’s Lousewort flowers in the summer with beautiful purple blooms.

Where to get them: Local native plant nurseries or conservation programs may have access to seeds or seedlings.

7. Oregon Checker Mallow (Sidalcea oregana)

This tall perennial with vibrant pink flowers is native to wet prairies and is now an endangered species due to habitat loss. It is a perfect addition to a rain garden or a wet area of your yard.

Where to get them: Check with Oregon’s Plant Conservation Alliance or your local native plant nursery.

8. Applegate’s Milk-Vetch (Astragalus applegatei)

This plant is endemic to Oregon and has been listed as endangered due to habitat destruction. Its charming pink and white flowers make it a pleasing addition to a native plant garden.

Where to get them: Contact the Oregon Native Plant Society for information on availability.

9. Bradshaw’s Lomatium (Lomatium bradshawii)

This unique plant with yellow flowers is native to the wet prairies of the Pacific Northwest and has been significantly impacted by habitat destruction.

Where to get them: Reach out to the Oregon Native Plant Society or local native plant nurseries for seeds or seedlings.

10. Kincaid’s Lupine (Lupinus sulphureus kincaidii)

This perennial plant, native to the Northwestern U.S., is vital for the survival of the endangered Fender’s Blue Butterfly, which uses it as its primary food source.

Where to get them: Reach out to the Oregon Native Plant Society or local native plant nurseries for seeds or seedlings.