In the native plant world, discussions about what plants are authentically native can get heated. Are the cultivars found at your local nursery native? Do they add ecological value or threaten biodiversity? In 2016, fifteen scientists from eleven organizations convened at Mt. Cuba Center to help decision-makers choose which plants are most appropriate in different planting contexts. Since each planting site is different, we developed a tool that would compare the genetic and adaptive backgrounds of a plant available on the market against the requirements of the planting site. Come see our complicated journey of discovery in action.

Speakers: Amy Highland, Mt. Cuba Center; Ari Novy, San Diego Botanic Garden; Tom Kaye, Institute of Applied Ecology