Native Fruit Plants Boost Farm Income and Biodiversity

By Blake Jackson

Native fruit plants provide benefits that go well beyond a simple harvest, offering both economic value and ecological support.

During a recent Grow Native! webinar, Nadia Navarrete-Tindall of Lincoln University of Missouri (LU) Cooperative Extension explained how these species contribute to local ecosystems while also creating opportunities for growers.

Native plants have evolved alongside regional wildlife, making them essential sources of food and habitat for pollinators and other animals. Navarrete-Tindall, who leads LU’s Native and Specialty Crops Program, highlighted several Missouri-grown fruits, including wild plums, persimmons, pawpaws, spicebush, and elderberries.

Wild plums were a key focus of the discussion. At Lincoln University, approximately a dozen plum trees produced more than 400 pounds of fruit in 2025, with production reaching as high as 1,000 pounds in 2024. While yields can fluctuate depending on weather conditions, the fruit can be used fresh or processed into products like jams and jellies.

Persimmons also demonstrated strong production potential, with a single tree capable of producing around 120 pounds of fruit. Select persimmons are marketed through LU’s Farmers Market at $4 per dozen, offering a reliable income stream.

Pawpaws present another profitable option, typically selling for $1 to $2 per fruit. In addition to their market value, pawpaw trees serve as host plants for the zebra swallowtail butterfly, supporting biodiversity.

“I initially planted pawpaws because I knew they were good for the butterflies,” Navarrete-Tindall said.

Spicebush, another native species, supports the spicebush swallowtail butterfly. Its berries can be dried and used as a culinary spice while also providing nourishment for wildlife.

Elderberries offer both functional and environmental benefits, forming dense natural barriers while supporting birds and pollinators. Navarrete-Tindall noted that she leaves part of her harvest for wildlife.

Collaborations between the Missouri Prairie Foundation’s Grow Native! program and LU continue to promote education and awareness of native plant benefits.

Photo Credit: istock-rixipix