Four major types of forests can be found in Louisiana. They are shortleaf pine uplands, slash and longleaf pine flats and hills, hardwood forests in alluvial basins, and cypress and tupelo swamps. Beech, eastern red cedar, and black walnut are the important commercial trees found in this region. Among the state's wildflowers are the ground orchid and several hyacinths. Two species, Louisiana quillwort and American chaffseed were listed as endangered in 2003.

Louisiana's diverse habitats including tidal marshes, swamps woodlands, and prairies—offer a variety of fauna. Deer, squirrel, rabbit, and bear are hunted as game, while muskrat, bobcat, mink, nutria, opossum, and skunk are commercially significant furbearers. Quail, turkey, woodcock, and various waterfowl are native prized game birds. Coastal beaches are inhabited by sea turtles, and whales may be seen offshore. Twenty three species of animal were considered as threatened under the US Fish and Wildlife Service. They include Louisiana black bear, Alabama heelsplitter, bald eagle, and redcockaded woodpecker.