Map on back cover indicates that the book cover all or parts of Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin

Introduction -- The Midwest spirit of place -- Selecting native plants -- Designing with native plants -- Garden-worthy Midwest native plants -- Trees -- Shrubs -- Groundcovers -- Perennials and vines -- Hardiness and heat zone charts

A native plant is defined as one that grew wild in a particular area prior to settlement by Europeans. If you live in the Midwest, choosing plants native to the region will benefit you, your yard, and the environment by reducing maintenance tasks, and attracting earth-friendly pollinators such as native birds, butterflies, and bees. Branhagen inspires readers to include native plants in their home gardens and landscapes