Native plants are the foundation of a successful bird-friendly garden. By planting with birds in mind, your yard can become a lively, ever-changing ecosystem—filled with song, color, and movement throughout the seasons.

Those vicious little spikes weren’t an accident. American holly evolved them to deter grazers. And while Chinese holly leaves can also absolutely shank you, they usually do so with one main spine per leaf, not the full medieval weaponry American holly brings to the table.

Milkweed plants are a favorite among gardeners and nature lovers, especially because they support monarch butterflies. But if you’ve noticed bright orange and black bugs on your milkweed, you’re likely seeing Oncopeltus fasciatus, commonly called the large milkweed bug.