About Wildtype

Who we are
Origin of plant material
Custom and large orders

Who we are

Wildtype exclusively grows plants native to Michigan, from Michigan genotypes . We grow trees, shrubs, grasses and wildflowers typical of southern Michigan woodlands, wetlands and prairies. It is our objective to propagate nursery stock with enough genetic diversity to create self-sustaining populations. Therefore, the vast majority of our plants are grown from wild seed stock. This is what we mean when we say our plants are borne to be wild .

WILDTYPE also provides ecological design & consulting services for public, commercial and residential projects focusing on restoration and preservation of native landscape. Services offered include: species inventory & site assessment; design & planning; and the establishment & management of native landscape. Please contact us for more information.

Origin of plant material

The name of the nursery, WILDTYPE, is borrowed from the genetic term “wild type,” which describes individuals with the most common genes in the native population. The name reflects the genetic status of the plants being propagated – they are grown from wild seed stock.
Our plants have not been bred or intentionally selected for uniformity. The seeds (and in some cases cuttings) of all the species listed were collected in lower Michigan and many from multiple sources. An accession number accompanies all the plants and seeds we sell. This number identifies when and where the seeds or cuttings were collected and where and how they were grown and handled. This information can be supplied upon request.

Custom and large orders

Let us know if there are species you are looking for—we may be growing them. If you have anticipated needs for large numbers of plants or unusual species, let us know well in advance. We also would be happy to contract-collect seed and/or contract-grow species specifically for you.