Categories
Nitrogen Fixers
Plants that convert atmospheric nitrogen into usable forms for soil enrichment
Dynamic Accumulators
Deep-rooted plants that mine nutrients from subsoil and make them available
Pollinator Plants
Flowering plants that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators
Beneficial Insect Habitat
Plants that provide shelter and food for predatory insects that control pests
Hedgerow & Windbreak Plants
Structural plants that create microclimates and protect gardens from wind
Ground Covers
Low-growing plants that suppress weeds and protect soil
Native Plants
Region-specific plants adapted to local climate and supporting local ecosystems
Medicinal Plants
Plants with traditional or modern medicinal properties
Fiber & Craft Plants
Plants that provide materials for crafts, textiles, and construction
Green Manure & Cover Crops
Fast-growing plants that improve soil when tilled in
Biomass Plants
High-yielding plants for compost, mulch, and organic matter production
Pest Confusers
Aromatic plants that mask crop scents and confuse pest insects
Wildlife Food
Plants that provide berries, seeds, and nectar for birds and mammals
Water Management
Plants that help with drainage, retention, or filtration of water
Why Functional Categories Matter
In biological gardening, plants are selected not just for their appearance or harvest, but for the ecological roles they play in creating resilient, self-sustaining systems.
By understanding these functional categories, you can design gardens that:
- Build soil fertility naturally without synthetic inputs
- Support biodiversity and beneficial insects
- Resist pests and diseases through ecosystem balance
- Conserve water and manage drainage
- Produce multiple yields (food, fiber, medicine, habitat)
- Regenerate degraded land over time
Each category page provides detailed information about specific plants, their functions, and how to integrate them into your garden design.