Methodology

Data Sources

FloraWize compiles plant data from multiple authoritative sources:

• USDA Plant Database — Official hardiness zone ratings, native ranges, and plant classifications.
• University Extension Services — Growing guides, care recommendations, and regional planting advice from land-grant universities across the United States.
• Horticultural Research — Peer-reviewed studies on companion planting, drought tolerance, deer resistance, and plant performance.
• Botanical Gardens — Verified plant characteristics, family classifications, and growth data from major botanical institutions.

Hardiness Zones

Our hardiness zone data is based on the 2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, which uses 30-year averages of minimum winter temperatures. Zone assignments for individual plants reflect the range in which the species is reliably winter-hardy.

Companion Planting

Companion planting relationships are documented from a combination of agricultural research, traditional gardening knowledge validated by extension services, and controlled studies on plant interactions including allelopathy and pest deterrence.

State Native Plants

State tree, state flower, and wildlife plant designations come from official state sources. Native species counts are estimates based on USDA and NatureServe data. Climate descriptions synthesize NOAA climate data.

Updates

We review and update our database regularly to reflect new research, zone map revisions, and corrections. If you notice an error, please contact us.