Ecosystems of New York City
The mid-Atlantic region boasts a rich and diverse indigenous flora. Abundant rainfall, fairly
evenly distributed, promotes vigorous plant growth, though seasonal drought occurs frequently.
All new plantings will require attention to weeding and supplemental watering during drought,
especially during the one-to-two-year establishment period, but informed plant selection can
ensure adaptation to environmental conditions.
Plant communities can be described as areas where associated species thrive in conditions
they are best suited for. It represents an ecosystem of interrelated plants, animals, water, and
soil. The right plant for the right place occurs naturally in response to environmental conditions
such as light exposure, soil conditions, salt and drought tolerance. New York City is a highly
altered landscape, yet many native plants have maintained their community structure in natural
areas and even reclaimed some of the built landscape. Habitats within New York City will vary
greatly from borough to borough and cannot be easily compared to the ideal habitats outside of
the urban context. Through centuries of adaptation, many tough, native plant species have co-
evolved alongside the ever-increasing human population and the effects of pollution,
compaction, urban rubble and fragmentation. The plant species listed within this manual make
up the common plant communities that can still be found throughout the five boroughs. The
native flora of New York City may not be what it used to be, but the species that still naturally
exist in this urban center can be the plant palette from which we choose, for our restored and
designed landscapes. It is imperative that we understand each plant species and the
communities they can be found in; it is only then, when we can make educated decisions on
how best to use these species in sustainable design.
Plants are grouped according to various associations found in the wild and these can direct
appropriate plant combinations adapted to particular soil, light, and hydrologic conditions. Not all
plants listed are commonly available from local nurseries, so availability should be confirmed
prior to specification. As always, informed plant selection proceeds from familiarity with
individual plants and their characteristics. Diversity and variety in planting can help encourage
better establishment of successful vegetative cover and provide improved habitat and visual
interest.
Close observation of established plant communities is often the best guide to planning
successful plant associations. The lists provide suggestions, but not infallible guidelines.
Consult recommended links and resources for additional information on appropriate plants for
various designed and restored landscapes.