Landscaping in Alaska presents unique challenges due to short growing seasons, cold winters, and varying daylight hours. Choosing plants that thrive in these conditions ensures a beautiful and sustainable landscape year-round.
Many gardeners struggle with selecting species that can withstand frost, heavy snow, and temperature swings. Native and hardy non-native plants can reduce maintenance, conserve water, and provide vibrant colors even in harsh climates.
Proper planning involves selecting plants based on sunlight requirements, soil type, and cold hardiness zones. Some plants can survive temperatures as low as −40°F, while others provide stunning blooms during the brief Alaskan summer.
In this guide, we’ll explore 20 best landscaping plants for Alaska, including shrubs, perennials, evergreens, and ornamental trees. Each entry includes planting tips, growth habits, and pros/cons to help you create a thriving Alaskan garden.
20 Best Landscaping Plants For Alaska
1. Alaska Yellow Cedar (Cupressus nootkatensis) — Best Evergreen Tree for Cold Climates
The Alaska Yellow Cedar is a hardy evergreen tree that thrives in Alaska’s subarctic zones. Its slow-growing nature ensures minimal maintenance while providing year-round greenery. The tree’s soft foliage emits a pleasant aroma, enhancing outdoor spaces.
This cedar tolerates heavy snowfall and withstands temperatures below −30°F. Its natural resistance to pests and diseases makes it ideal for sustainable landscaping. It can reach heights of up to 40–60 feet, offering privacy and wind protection.
The tree performs well in well-drained soils and partial shade. It is perfect for property borders, large gardens, or public parks. Many homeowners select it for long-lasting aesthetic appeal.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Low maintenance
• Pests resistant
• Windbreak
• Year-round green
• Aromatic foliage
• Long lifespan
Cons:
• Slow growth
• Large footprint
• Needs space
2. Blue Spruce (Picea pungens) — Best Ornamental Conifer for Alaska
The Blue Spruce is prized for its striking blue-green needles and conical shape. It withstands Alaskan winters and heavy snowfall with minimal damage. The tree provides year-round structure and color to any landscape.
Blue Spruce tolerates a wide range of soils, including sandy or clay types. Its strong branches resist snow breakage, ideal for outdoor decoration. Many landscapers use it as a centerpiece or for holiday displays.
It grows well as a single specimen or in rows for windbreaks. Regular pruning helps maintain its elegant shape. The Blue Spruce is a reliable choice for both residential and commercial gardens.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Snow-resistant
• Attractive foliage
• Durable branches
• Low maintenance
• Versatile placement
• Wind protection
Cons:
• Slow growth
• Needs pruning
• Large size
3. Siberian Pea Shrub (Caragana arborescens) — Best Nitrogen-Fixing Shrub for Alaska
The Siberian Pea Shrub is ideal for Alaskan landscapes due to its hardiness and soil-enhancing properties. It fixes nitrogen, improving soil fertility naturally. The shrub produces bright yellow flowers in late spring.
It tolerates cold temperatures and drought conditions once established. Its dense growth makes it excellent for hedges or windbreaks. Wildlife often benefits from its seeds and blossoms.
The shrub requires minimal maintenance and thrives in full sun. It can withstand pruning to maintain desired size and shape. Caragana arborescens is perfect for sustainable and functional landscaping.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Nitrogen-fixer
• Low maintenance
• Drought-tolerant
• Wildlife-friendly
• Hedge-friendly
• Bright flowers
Cons:
• Spiny branches
• Invasive potential
• Medium size
4. Arctic Willow (Salix arctica) — Best Low-Growing Shrub for Alaskan Gardens
The Arctic Willow is a dwarf shrub native to Alaska’s tundra regions. It stays low to the ground, reducing exposure to harsh winds and snow. Its soft, silvery leaves add texture to rock gardens and slopes.
This plant thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. Its resilience to extreme cold makes it ideal for high-altitude landscaping. It spreads slowly, preventing unwanted invasions into other garden areas.
Arctic Willow can be used in erosion control due to its dense root system. It provides early spring color and texture when most plants are dormant. Gardeners often pair it with perennials for layered landscapes.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Low-growing
• Wind-resistant
• Erosion control
• Silvery foliage
• Minimal maintenance
• Native species
Cons:
• Slow growth
• Small size
• Limited flowers
5. Alpine Forget-Me-Not (Myosotis alpestris) — Best Perennial Flower for Alaskan Rock Gardens
The Alpine Forget-Me-Not produces vibrant blue flowers ideal for Alaska’s short summer. It thrives in rock gardens, slopes, and alpine landscapes. The plant remains hardy in temperatures down to −20°F.
It spreads moderately, creating dense floral coverage. Minimal watering is required once established. Pollinators are attracted to its bright, delicate blooms.
This flower is perfect for adding seasonal color and contrast to shrubs or evergreens. Its compact size allows planting along walkways or borders. Many gardeners rely on it for low-maintenance beauty.
Pros:
• Cold-tolerant
• Bright blooms
• Low maintenance
• Compact size
• Pollinator-friendly
• Spreads moderately
• Alpine-suited
Cons:
• Short bloom
• Needs sun
• Moderate growth
6. Alaska Blueberry (Vaccinium alaskaense) — Best Edible Shrub for Alaska
The Alaska Blueberry is both ornamental and productive, providing edible berries in summer. Its vibrant foliage adds autumn color, while spring flowers enhance aesthetics. The shrub thrives in acidic, well-drained soil.
Cold-hardy and resilient, it grows in USDA zones 1–4. Birds and pollinators benefit from its berries and blossoms. Pruning encourages new growth and berry production.
Alaska Blueberry is ideal for small home gardens or large edible landscapes. It combines beauty, utility, and low maintenance for northern climates. Homeowners enjoy both visual appeal and fresh fruit harvests.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Edible fruit
• Autumn color
• Pollinator-friendly
• Low maintenance
• Shrub-friendly
• Resilient
Cons:
• Acidic soil
• Moderate size
• Seasonal fruit
7. Lupine (Lupinus nootkatensis) — Best Nitrogen-Fixing Flower for Alaska
The Alaskan Lupine is a nitrogen-fixing perennial that improves soil health while beautifying landscapes. Its tall spikes of purple or blue flowers bloom in summer. It attracts bees and other pollinators for ecosystem support.
It is highly drought-tolerant and withstands frost. Lupine grows well in full sun and sandy or rocky soils. Its vigorous growth helps prevent soil erosion on slopes or disturbed sites.
This flower is perfect for large garden beds, slopes, or mixed perennial borders. It provides color, wildlife support, and soil improvement in one plant. Many conservation projects in Alaska use it for revegetation.
Pros:
• Nitrogen-fixing
• Pollinator-friendly
• Cold-tolerant
• Drought-resistant
• Soil-stabilizing
• Summer blooms
• Low maintenance
Cons:
• Invasive potential
• Needs sun
• Tall stems
8. Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera) — Best Shade Tree for Alaskan Landscapes
The Paper Birch is an iconic Alaskan tree, known for its white peeling bark and fast growth. It provides excellent shade during summer months. Its foliage turns bright yellow in autumn, adding seasonal interest.
Paper Birch tolerates cold climates and grows in USDA zones 2–5. It is often planted along streets, parks, and residential yards. Its moderate growth requires occasional pruning to maintain shape.
This tree attracts birds and enhances biodiversity in landscapes. Its distinctive bark provides aesthetic appeal even in winter. Many homeowners plant it as a focal point or natural screening.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Fast growth
• Shade provider
• Autumn color
• Bird-friendly
• Iconic bark
• Low maintenance
Cons:
• Moderate pruning
• Short-lived
• Susceptible to pests
9. Dwarf Arctic Willow (Salix arctica ‘Nana’) — Best Groundcover for Harsh Sites
The Dwarf Arctic Willow ‘Nana’ is excellent for erosion control and low-maintenance groundcover. Its silvery foliage brightens rock gardens and slopes. This cultivar remains hardy under extreme cold and wind.
It spreads slowly, forming dense mats that protect soil. The plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Wildlife often uses it for shelter or forage.
Its compact size is perfect for small landscapes, alpine beds, or rock gardens. It provides winter interest when other plants are dormant. Gardeners select it for sustainability and visual appeal.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Groundcover
• Wind-resistant
• Low maintenance
• Silvery foliage
• Soil stabilization
• Native species
Cons:
• Slow spread
• Small height
• Limited flowers
10. Coastal Strawberry (Fragaria chiloensis) — Best Edible Groundcover for Alaska
The Coastal Strawberry is an edible groundcover with beautiful white flowers and tasty summer berries. It spreads quickly and tolerates Alaskan cold. Its dense foliage suppresses weeds effectively.
It grows well in sandy or rocky soils along coastal areas. Wildlife and pollinators benefit from its blossoms and fruit. Minimal maintenance is required once established.
Ideal for edible landscaping, slopes, and garden borders. Provides beauty, utility, and ecosystem support. Homeowners enjoy both ornamental appeal and fruit harvest.
Pros:
• Edible fruit
• Cold-tolerant
• Weed suppression
• Groundcover
• Pollinator-friendly
• Low maintenance
• Quick spread
Cons:
• Needs sun
• Seasonal fruit
• Short plant height
11. Fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium) — Best Vibrant Flower for Alaskan Meadows
The Fireweed produces tall spikes of pink to magenta flowers that brighten Alaska’s summer landscapes. It grows well in disturbed soils, along roadsides, and open meadows. Fireweed attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Cold-hardy and resilient, it tolerates frost and fluctuating temperatures. Its fast growth helps prevent soil erosion in open areas. Fireweed thrives in full sun and well-drained soils.
This plant is ideal for naturalistic gardens, meadows, and wildflower borders. Its seasonal bloom creates a dramatic visual display. Homeowners value it for both aesthetics and ecological benefits.
Pros:
• Cold-tolerant
• Fast-growing
• Pollinator-friendly
• Bright flowers
• Soil-stabilizing
• Low maintenance
• Native species
Cons:
• Short bloom
• Spreads aggressively
• Needs sun
12. Alaskan Lily (Lilium alaskaense) — Best Perennial Flower for Rocky Landscapes
The Alaskan Lily is native to Alaska, producing fragrant orange blooms in midsummer. Its tall stems and vibrant petals stand out among low-growing plants. This perennial is well-suited for rocky or alpine gardens.
It tolerates cold temperatures and survives in USDA zones 2–5. Minimal watering is needed once established. Pollinators and wildlife benefit from its nectar-rich flowers.
Alaskan Lily adds height and color contrast to mixed perennial beds. Its low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for sustainable landscaping. Gardeners appreciate its natural adaptation to Alaskan conditions.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Low-maintenance
• Vibrant blooms
• Wildlife-friendly
• Rocky soil-tolerant
• Perennial growth
• Fragrant flowers
Cons:
• Short bloom
• Needs sun
• Fragile stems
13. Mountain Avens (Dryas octopetala) — Best Ground-Hugging Plant for Cold Sites
Mountain Avens is a low-growing, hardy perennial perfect for rock gardens and slopes. Its white, daisy-like flowers bloom in early summer. This plant thrives in Alaska’s cold, windy climates.
It spreads slowly, forming dense mats that reduce erosion. Full sun and well-drained soil ensure optimal growth. Its silver-green foliage provides visual interest even after flowering.
Mountain Avens is excellent for alpine or tundra-inspired landscaping. It tolerates frost, drought, and poor soils. Many landscapers use it to stabilize hillsides and edges.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Groundcover
• Drought-resistant
• Erosion control
• Low maintenance
• Silver foliage
• Slow spread
Cons:
• Small flowers
• Slow growth
• Needs sun
14. Alaska Thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus) — Best Berry-Producing Shrub
The Alaska Thimbleberry produces edible red berries and bright green foliage. Its large leaves provide shade for lower plants. The shrub thrives in forests, edges, and gardens.
Cold-hardy and resilient, it tolerates Alaskan winters and moderate drought. Its flowers attract bees and other pollinators. Wildlife feed on its berries during summer and fall.
This plant is ideal for edible landscaping or naturalistic gardens. Pruning encourages healthy growth and fruit production. Homeowners enjoy both aesthetic and practical benefits.
Pros:
• Edible berries
• Cold-tolerant
• Pollinator-friendly
• Shade leaves
• Low maintenance
• Wildlife-friendly
• Hardy shrub
Cons:
• Large leaves
• Needs pruning
• Short fruit season
15. Alpine Forget-Me-Not (Myosotis alpestris ‘Alaska Blue’) — Best Rock Garden Flower
The Alaska Blue Forget-Me-Not produces dense clusters of bright blue flowers. It thrives in rocky soils and cold climates. This perennial is low-growing and perfect for borders.
It spreads moderately and attracts pollinators. Full sun or partial shade ensures vibrant blooms. The plant is drought-tolerant once established.
Alaska Blue Forget-Me-Not adds color to otherwise stark landscapes. Its compact size suits small gardens and rockery areas. Gardeners rely on it for low-maintenance alpine aesthetics.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Bright blue
• Low maintenance
• Compact
• Pollinator-friendly
• Rock garden-suited
• Moderate spread
Cons:
• Short bloom
• Needs sun
• Small size
16. Red Osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea) — Best Winter Interest Shrub
The Red Osier Dogwood provides striking red stems in winter, adding color to snowy landscapes. Its white summer flowers attract pollinators. This shrub tolerates wet soils and cold temperatures.
It spreads via suckers, forming dense thickets. Birds and wildlife use it for food and shelter. Full sun ensures the brightest stem color in winter.
Red Osier Dogwood is perfect for borders, wetland gardens, or erosion control. Its multi-season interest makes it a favorite among Alaskan landscapers. Minimal maintenance is required once established.
Pros:
• Winter color
• Cold-hardy
• Wildlife-friendly
• Low maintenance
• Wet soil-tolerant
• Dense growth
• Multi-season interest
Cons:
• Suckering spread
• Large footprint
• Needs pruning
17. Sitka Spruce (Picea sitchensis) — Best Coastal Evergreen
The Sitka Spruce is native to Alaska’s coastline and thrives in cool, moist conditions. Its dense needles provide year-round greenery. The tree grows tall, offering windbreaks and privacy.
It tolerates heavy snow and coastal winds. Low pest and disease issues make it ideal for sustainable landscaping. Sitka Spruce grows well in full sun or partial shade.
This tree is suitable for large yards, parks, and coastal properties. Its fast growth compared to other conifers makes it reliable. Homeowners value it for shade, aesthetics, and ecological benefits.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Coastal-tolerant
• Evergreen
• Wind-resistant
• Low maintenance
• Fast growth
• Wildlife-friendly
Cons:
• Large size
• Needs space
• Moderate pruning
18. Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) — Best Groundcover for Alaskan Gardens
The Bearberry is a low-growing evergreen groundcover that produces red berries and pink flowers. Its dense foliage helps control erosion. It thrives in rocky, sandy soils with full sun.
Cold-hardy and drought-tolerant, Bearberry survives harsh Alaskan winters. Its berries attract birds and wildlife. It requires minimal maintenance once established.
Bearberry is perfect for slopes, rock gardens, and borders. Its year-round foliage ensures visual interest. Gardeners use it for functional and aesthetic purposes.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Groundcover
• Drought-tolerant
• Erosion control
• Red berries
• Low maintenance
• Wildlife-friendly
Cons:
• Small size
• Slow growth
• Needs sun
19. Huckleberry (Vaccinium membranaceum) — Best Edible Alaskan Shrub
The Huckleberry produces sweet, edible berries and thrives in subarctic climates. Its foliage turns vibrant colors in autumn. The shrub prefers acidic, well-drained soils.
Cold-hardy and drought-resistant, it grows well in full sun or partial shade. Pollinators are attracted to its flowers in spring. Wildlife enjoys its fruit during summer and fall.
Huckleberry is perfect for edible landscaping and naturalized gardens. Pruning encourages new growth and fruiting. Homeowners value both aesthetic and practical uses.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Edible fruit
• Autumn color
• Low maintenance
• Pollinator-friendly
• Shrub-friendly
• Wildlife-friendly
Cons:
• Acidic soil
• Medium size
• Seasonal fruit
20. Alaskan Bluebell (Campanula rotundifolia) — Best Rock Garden Perennial
The Alaskan Bluebell produces delicate blue flowers on slender stems. It thrives in rocky or alpine soils and tolerates frost. This perennial is perfect for borders, slopes, and rock gardens.
It spreads slowly, providing dense flower coverage. Full sun ensures vibrant blooms, while minimal watering is needed. Pollinators, including bees, benefit from its nectar.
Alaskan Bluebell adds beauty and height to mixed plantings. Its low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for sustainable landscapes. Gardeners rely on it for seasonal color and alpine appeal.
Pros:
• Cold-hardy
• Bright flowers
• Pollinator-friendly
• Rock garden-suited
• Low maintenance
• Slow spread
• Perennial growth
Cons:
• Short bloom
• Small stems
• Needs sun
Best Landscaping Plants For Alaska (FAQs)
1. What are the best cold-hardy plants for Alaska gardens?
Cold-hardy plants like Alaska Yellow Cedar, Blue Spruce, and Siberian Pea Shrub thrive in Alaska’s harsh climates. These plants can withstand temperatures below −30°F, heavy snow, and strong winds. Homeowners should select native or adapted species for low-maintenance landscaping.
2. Which plants provide the best year-round greenery in Alaska?
Evergreens such as Alaska Yellow Cedar, Sitka Spruce, and Paper Birch maintain foliage throughout winter. They provide structure, privacy, and aesthetic appeal even during snowy months. Incorporating evergreens ensures your garden remains visually appealing year-round.
3. Which edible plants grow well in Alaska?
Edible plants like Alaska Blueberry, Huckleberry, and Alaska Thimbleberry produce fruits while withstanding cold temperatures. These shrubs are low-maintenance and attract wildlife, adding functional beauty to your garden. Proper soil preparation, such as acidic and well-drained soils, enhances fruit production.
4. How can I prevent soil erosion with Alaskan landscaping plants?
Groundcovers such as Arctic Willow, Bearberry, and Dwarf Arctic Willow ‘Nana’ are excellent for stabilizing slopes. Their dense root systems prevent soil loss and withstand harsh winds. Combining shrubs and perennials helps create a multi-layered erosion control system.
5. What flowers bloom reliably in Alaska’s short growing season?
Plants like Alpine Forget-Me-Not, Alaskan Lily, and Alaskan Bluebell bloom quickly during the short summer. Choosing perennials that thrive in rocky or alpine soils ensures consistent flowering. Bright blooms provide visual interest while supporting pollinators.
6. Which shrubs offer wildlife support in Alaska gardens?
Shrubs such as Red Osier Dogwood, Siberian Pea Shrub, and Huckleberry attract birds, bees, and other wildlife. They provide shelter, nectar, and fruit during various seasons. Incorporating wildlife-friendly plants supports ecosystem health and biodiversity.
7. Are native plants better than non-native species for Alaskan landscapes?
Native plants are more adapted to local climate conditions, requiring less water, fertilizer, and maintenance. Species like Alaska Yellow Cedar, Fireweed, and Arctic Willow thrive naturally in Alaska. Using native plants improves sustainability and resilience against pests and extreme weather.
Conclusion
Landscaping in Alaska presents unique challenges due to cold temperatures, short growing seasons, and variable soils. Choosing the best-adapted plants ensures your garden thrives year-round with minimal maintenance.
Native and cold-hardy species like Sitka Spruce, Fireweed, and Huckleberry offer both aesthetic appeal and ecological benefits. Their resilience supports wildlife, stabilizes soil, and provides seasonal interest.
Perennials, shrubs, and groundcovers each play a crucial role in creating a balanced and sustainable Alaskan landscape. Combining colorful blooms with evergreens and edible plants enhances both beauty and functionality.
In this guide, we’ve highlighted top landscaping plants for Alaska to inspire homeowners and gardeners. Start planning your garden today and invest in plants that thrive in cold climates, ensuring a vibrant and low-maintenance outdoor space all year long.
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