• More than 3,000 native and naturalized prairie plants flourish within the state of Illinois. The state has five state forests which offer native wildflower viewing opportunities across prairies and woodlands: Sand Ridge, Trail of Tears, Hidden Springs, Big River and the Lowden-Miller Forests. Viewers can catch glimpses of not only white wildflowers, but a diverse color palette of blooms within the state's regions.
  
  

White Baneberry

• The white baneberry (Actaea pachypoda) occurs through the prairie edges and forest lands of Illinois where it thrives beneath the towering deciduous trees in partial to full shade. The plant grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet. It prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. From May to June the plant produces clusters of small white flowers that rise above the plant's foliage on leafless stems. After the blooms fade the stalks turn from green to a brilliant red coloration and white berries are formed. The white berries have a small purple spot on each one. They are toxic and left alone by wildlife. They persist on the plant into the fall months. The plant should never be used as an ornamental in areas frequented by small children because of its extreme toxicity, according to the Missouri Botanical Garden.
  
  

Indian Hemp

• Indian hemp (Apocynum cannabinum) grows to a height of 1 to 4 feet. It occurs throughout the state in open prairie areas and in forest settings. The plant grows in dry or moist areas, and requires full sunlight to thrive. An aggressive grower, it will quickly colonize an area. Care should be taken when planting the Indian hemp in the home garden because it can overtake planting areas. During the summer months it sports white flower clusters that appear on stiff stems above lance-shaped foliage. Butterflies adore the flowers and flock around the plant. The flower stems were once used to make rope. Following flowering, pod-like fruit appear. The plant is poisonous so avoid planting it in areas frequented by pets or children.
  
  

Foxglove Beardtongue

• The foxglove beardtongue (Penstemon digitalis) grows to a height of up to 5 feet. An impressive prairie plant, it tolerates dry soil conditions. It also grows along the forest's margins. From mid-spring to early summer the plant produces flower panicles of white, tubular blooms. They appear on the tops of rigid flower stems. The flowerhead has five stamens but one is sterile. The sterile stamen of the flowerhead has a soft fur covering. Hummingbirds adore the flowerheads. The plant grows well in the home garden when planted in full sunlight. It prefers slightly acidic soil. The plant will tolerate clay loam and, once established, is drought tolerant.