[Objective] The plant composition of typical catchment area of the Loess Plateau was analyzed to evaluate its ecological restoration status and provide scientific guidance for further implementation of vegetation restoration measures to improve the effectiveness of soil and water conservation. [Methods] Based on the Heshui (HS) and Jingbian (JB) landslide-dammed reservoir catchments located in the plateau-gully region of the southern central area and the hill-gully region of the northern central area of the Loess Plateau, respectively, comprehensive surveys were conducted to document the existing vegetation types, identify the pollen composition in the topsoil, and analyze the physical properties of the topsoil, including water content, grain size, and loss on ignition at 550 ℃. [Results] In total, 230 genera from 84 families were identified in the HS catchment, and 223 genera from 78 families were identified in the JB catchment. Nevertheless, there was a higher abundance of woody plants, moisture-loving grasses, and herbs around the HS catchment (51.74%), whereas xerophytic shrubs and herbs dominated around the JB catchment (56.50%). These patterns reflected a combination of climatic conditions, soil properties, land use conditions, and agricultural and economic development. In addition, the current high vegetation coverage area under the 'Grain for Green’ project accounted for 82.61% and 37.80% of the area around the HS and JB catchments, respectively. However, certain adverse phenomena, including invasive non-native plant species, a low proportion of indigenous flora, and a noticeable presence of artificial plants, have been observed. [Conclusion] To ensure sustainable vegetation regeneration, ecological restoration of small catchments in the Loess Plateau should fully consider the local climate and plant characteristics.