Virginia bluebells are native to Virginia. These early blooms support pollinators and thrive in shady garden spaces. Consider adding them to your garden as one example of a native plant that helps support our local ecosystem.
By Eleanor Trice, ABC Commissioner
Alexandria, VA – As the nation marks the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026, the City of Alexandria is inviting the community to celebrate in a uniquely local and environmentally meaningful way by planting red, white, and blue native gardens.
Through a new initiative called Plant for America250, the Alexandria Beautification Commission, in partnership with the City, is challenging at least 250 property owners, including residents, businesses, and institutions, to install patriotic-themed plantings using native species during the spring and summer of 2026.
The effort draws inspiration from similar patriotic gardens planted during the nation’s Bicentennial in 1976 and aims to support our nation’s founding principles through ecological stewardship.
“These gardens are a simple, visible way for people to participate in America250 while also improving our local environment,” said representatives from the Beautification Commission. “We hope to see native plant pots at business entrances, small lawns replaced with patriotic native plants, and creative plantings throughout the city.”
Reds, White, and Blue: The Native Way
The campaign highlights a variety of Virginia native plants that naturally showcase patriotic colors, including:
Blue: Blue false indigo, wild blue phlox, Virginia bluebells, Eastern bluestar, great blue lobelia (blue cardinal flower), blue mist flower, wild petunia, blue-eyed grass, and giant hyssop (hummingbird mint).
White: White wood (New England) aster, Virginia sweetspire, white coneflower, and white yarrow.
Red: Eastern red columbine, cardinal flower, red trillium, scarlet beebalm, and Indian pink.
Residents and businesses do not need large spaces to participate. Removing even a small patch of turf grass or adding a container of native plants can make a meaningful difference.
Why Native Plants Matter
Beyond their beauty, native plants provide substantial environmental and economic benefits:
Lower maintenance and reduced long-term costs once established
Minimal need for pesticides and fertilizers, protecting wildlife and water quality
Greater drought tolerance and reduced water use
Attraction of beneficial insects that support vegetable gardens and control pests
Improved soil stability and erosion control through deep root systems
Better stormwater filtration and reduced runoff
Reduced heat island effect and potential energy savings through strategic planting
How to Get Involved
Residents and businesses interested in participating can find guidance and resources at AlexandriaVA.gov/Beautification, including the opportunity to nominate yourself or others for a 2026 Beautification Award in April 2026. Additional information on patriotic gardens and native plant selection is available through the Virginia Cooperative Extension website by searching “patriotic gardens.”
The Commission has asked area nurseries to make native plants in red, white, and blue available. A local nursery, Nature by Design, has natives available for delivery and pick-up on Sundays at the Four Mile Run Farmers Market. See more about native plants and where to buy them on the PlantNOVAnatives website.
With Plant for America250, Alexandria is turning a historic milestone into an opportunity for collective action, nurturing democracy while planting the seeds for a healthier, more resilient future.
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