{"id":7356,"date":"2022-01-01T21:44:27","date_gmt":"2022-01-01T21:44:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/?p=7356"},"modified":"2026-09-29T14:05:46","modified_gmt":"2026-09-29T14:05:46","slug":"native-plants-florida","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/native-plants-florida\/","title":{"rendered":"30 Best Native Plants for Florida"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\u2022 <strong>Built for Florida:<\/strong> Native plants are adapted to the state&#8217;s climate, so they need less water, fewer pesticides, and little to no fertilizer once established.<br>\u2022 <strong>Something for every yard:<\/strong> These 30 picks span wildflowers, shrubs, trees, palms, vines, and grasses for every region, from the Panhandle to the Keys.<br>\u2022 <strong>Right plant, right place:<\/strong> Match each plant to your USDA hardiness zone, sunlight, and soil before buying so it thrives with minimal work.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best native plants for Florida grow beautifully on their own, without constant watering, fertilizing, or fuss. Adapted to the state&#8217;s heat, sand, and rain, these 30 Florida native plants bring color, wildlife, and low-maintenance charm to any yard.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your natural environment is already filled with flowers, trees, shrubs, and grasses that thrive without human help. Add a few to your landscape and your yard can be as lovely and carefree as a wildflower meadow.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We&#8217;ll walk you through 30 of the best natives for Florida gardens, why they work, and how to pick the right ones for your yard. If you would rather not dig in yourself, LawnLove&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/gardener\">gardening services<\/a> can handle the planting for you.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-1fb76c56-f016-4163-887c-c5d3687cf59c\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\">In this article:<\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/native-plants-florida\/#0-30-native-plants-for-florida\" style=\"\">30 native plants for Florida<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/native-plants-florida\/#31-why-native-plants\" style=\"\">Why native plants?<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/native-plants-florida\/#32-choosing-the-right-native-plants-for-your-yard\" style=\"\">Choosing the right native plants for your yard<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/native-plants-florida\/#39-where-to-find-more-native-plants-for-florida\" style=\"\">Where to find more native plants for Florida<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/native-plants-florida\/#40-faqs\" style=\"\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 id=\"0-30-native-plants-for-florida\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"30-native-plants-for-florida\">30 native plants for Florida<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Florida&#8217;s best native plants include wildflowers like tickseed and black-eyed Susan, shrubs like beautyberry and firebush, trees like the southern live oak and gumbo-limbo, plus native palms, vines, and grasses. Here are 30 of the best, with the growing conditions each one needs.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"1-1-american-beautyberry-callicarpa-americana-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"1-american-beautyberry-callicarpa-americana\">1. American beautyberry (<em>Callicarpa americana)<\/em><\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/rsz_1image0.jpg\" alt=\"close-up of bright purple berries from a beautyberry plant, found in Inidiana\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Beautyberry shrub produces purple fruits in late summer and early fall. Photo Credit: Jeff Herman<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">American beautyberry is a delightfully colorful shrub you\u2019ve definitely seen around if you live in Florida. They grow everywhere. You\u2019ll quickly recognize the beautyberry shrub for the little balls of bright purple fruits that bejewel each branch in late summer to early fall.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During this season, the fruits pop brilliantly against the broad, light green leaves, attracting the eye and attracting birds to your garden.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Shrub<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>6a-10b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun or partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Prefers nutrient-rich soils high in organic matter but also tolerates poor, sandy soils<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Deciduous&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>3-8 feet tall and 4-8 feet wide&nbsp;<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"2-2-azalea-native-species-rhododendron-spp-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"2-azalea-native-species-rhododendron-spp\">2. Azalea native species (<em>Rhododendron spp.)<\/em><\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_14136444328_fd337ef98f_c.jpg\" alt=\"white-ish pink trumpet-shaped wild azalea flowers\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The swamp azalea is found on moist riverbanks and swamp edges. Photo Credit: Duane Burdick | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/43436168@N00\/14136444328\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Believe it or not, when we talk about Florida native azaleas, that does not include the extremely common white or pink azaleas that line nearly every home in North and Central Florida. The azalea species you\u2019re probably most familiar with is <em>Rhododendron indicum<\/em>, which is native to Japan.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Though they\u2019re less common in landscapes, Florida has a few of its own beautiful <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu\/plants\/trees-and-shrubs\/shrubs\/azaleas\/\">native azalea species<\/a> that can set your home apart from the sea of pink and white flowers. Some examples:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Piedmont azalea (<em>R. canescens)<\/em>: Variations of white to deep pink blooms that resemble the non-native azaleas; Found in the Panhandle and North Central Florida<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Florida flame azalea (<em>R. austrinum)<\/em>: Yellow, gold, tangerine, or apricot blooms; found in areas of the Panhandle<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Alabama azalea (<em>R. alabamense)<\/em>: Pure white blooms with yellow blotches; found in a few counties of the North Central Panhandle&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Swamp azalea (<em>R. viscosum<\/em>): White or pale pink tubular, trumpet-shaped blooms; found on moist streambanks and swamp edges<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maybe you can mix up your landscape a little this spring with one of Florida\u2019s intriguing native azaleas.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Shrub<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>5a-9b (varies depending on the species)<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Well-draining, acidic soil<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Most Florida native species are deciduous&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>Depends on the species; up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"3-3-black-eyed-susan-rudbeckia-hirta-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"3-black-eyed-susan-rudbeckia-hirta\">3. Black-eyed Susan (<em>Rudbeckia hirta<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_43403579244_9255395873_c.jpg\" alt=\"vibrant yellow petals from black-eyed susans\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Black-eyed Susan is great for homes along the beach since it can withstand both heat and salt. Photo Credit: robin_ottawa (I\u2019m on a phone!) | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/egological\/43403579244\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Black-eyed Susans look like little daisies with bright yellow petals and a stark black center. They\u2019re a charming and classic addition to any flower garden. Even better, they can survive most harsh conditions, including drought, heat, and high salt content in the air (perfect if you live on the coast).<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Flower<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>3a-9b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Tolerates just about any soil type<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Biennial or short-lived perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"4-4-blazing-star-liatris-spp-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"4-blazing-star-liatris-spp\">4. Blazing star (<em>Liatris spp.)<\/em><\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/rsz_9382787885_9429a65243_c.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of purple flowers from prairie blazing star\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">If you want to attract pollinators to your yard, add blazing star to your garden. Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/wackybadger\/9382787885\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Blazing star, also known as gayfeather or colic root, is much beloved by pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It would do well as part of a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-create-a-butterfly-garden\/\">butterfly garden<\/a>.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gardeners love blazing star, too, because it\u2019s hardy and difficult to kill, and its purple bottlebrush-shaped blooms add an interesting texture to the garden.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Flower<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>8a-10b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Tolerates most soils as long as they drain well<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>2-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"5-5-buttonwood-conocarpus-erectus-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"5-buttonwood-conocarpus-erectus\">5. Buttonwood (<em>Conocarpus erectus)<\/em><\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_24359572105_731e1241e3_c.jpg\" alt=\"close-up of buttonwood pinkish-red fruits in a cluster\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Buttonwood is versatile and could be used as a tree, shrub or hedge. Photo Credit: James St. John | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/jsjgeology\/24359572105\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can use buttonwood for many different purposes in the landscape. Continuously cut back a buttonwood plant and keep it small as a shrub, let it grow into a tall ornamental tree, or plant a row of them as a privacy hedge.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you let buttonwood grow tall, its trunk will form a twisted, leaning sort of shape.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Tree or shrub<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>10b-11b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Can grow in pretty much any soil&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>15-20 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"6-6-carolina-jessamine-gelsemium-sempervirens-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"6-carolina-jessamine-gelsemium-sempervirens\">6. Carolina jessamine (<em>Gelsemium sempervirens<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/rsz_49687552016_7cc70965a5_c.jpg\" alt=\"bright yellow carolina jessamine flowers\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Carolina jessamine is a great vine for a trellis or wall with its dark-green leaves and bright yellow flowers. Photo Credit: Patrick Mueller | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/pmuellr\/49687552016\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use this clump-forming vine to cover a trellis, stone wall, or another landscape feature. The vine has dark green, spear-shaped leaves year-round and blooms with light yellow trumpet flowers in late winter to early spring.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carolina jessamine might look beautiful, but it\u2019s highly poisonous if eaten, so it may not be a great choice if you have pets.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Vine<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>7a-9b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Well-draining acidic to slightly alkaline soil<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>Spreads 10-20 feet&nbsp;<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"7-7-coontie-zamia-integrifolia-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"7-coontie-zamia-integrifolia\">7. Coontie (<em>Zamia integrifolia<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_24811287224_43abfaef69_c.jpg\" alt=\"coontie decorative plant\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Coonties have feathery leaves like palm fronds, and they grow low to the ground. Photo Credit: Leonora (Ellie) Enking | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/33037982@N04\/24811287224\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The coontie is a cycad, which is a group of plants that have been on Earth since the time of the dinosaurs. Coontie plants are native to South Florida, and they\u2019re the only native cycad in North America.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So you can feel very special if you have one of these in your yard.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Coonties have feathery leaves like palm fronds, and they grow low to the ground. They have a softer texture than other cycads and no sharp edges. You might use a group planting of coonties to border a garden or provide ground cover.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Warning: All parts of coontie plants are toxic if ingested, and eating even a few seeds could be fatal. Never plant coonties where pets or small children might get into them.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Low-growing clumps or ground cover&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>8a-11b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Grows well in any light conditions, from full sun to full shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Tolerates most soils as long as they drain well<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>2-3 feet tall and up to 3 feet wide&nbsp;<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"8-8-coral-bean-erythrina-herbacea-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"8-coral-bean-erythrina-herbacea\">8. Coral bean (<em>Erythrina herbacea<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_9099847177_28f6b0c8af_c.jpg\" alt=\"close-up of vibrant red coral bean flowers\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Coral bean produces vibrant red flowers. Photo Credit: Everglades National Park | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/evergladesnps\/9099847177\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | public domain<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Coral bean loves the hot South Florida climate, and it can grow into a tall shrub or small ornamental tree there. In the rest of the state, it usually doesn\u2019t get larger than a tall flower.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wherever you are, coral bean\u2019s skinny, bright red blooms look like seed pods that grow on tall stalks and make a striking addition to any landscape.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beware that coral bean produces poisonous seeds, so once again it isn\u2019t the best choice for a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/dog-friendly-backyard-landscaping-ideas\/\">pet-friendly landscape<\/a>. Even though pets should stay away from it, wildlife like hummingbirds and butterflies love coral bean\u2019s flowers.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Flower (North and Central Florida) or tall shrub or small tree (South Florida)<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>8a-11b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun or partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Prefers fast-draining sandy soils but can do well in any soil type as long as it has sufficient drainage<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Deciduous&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>5-15 feet tall<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"9-9-coral-honeysuckle-lonicera-sempervirens-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"9-coral-honeysuckle-lonicera-sempervirens\">9. Coral honeysuckle (<em>Lonicera sempervirens<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_14362092250_eb8939f945_c.jpg\" alt=\"cluster of pink coral honeysuckle flowers\" style=\"width:799px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Coral honeysuckle vine blooms in spring and summer and attracts hummingbirds. Photo Credit: Jo Naylor | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/pandora_6666\/14362092250\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Coral honeysuckle, also known as trumpet honeysuckle, is a clumping vine with showy, bright red flowers. The flowers are thin and tubular with bright yellow stamens sticking out of the ends, and they grow in clusters that hang down from the vine.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Coral honeysuckle blooms throughout spring and early summer and attracts many birds and butterflies.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Vine<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>4a-9b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun or partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Tolerates most soils as long as they drain well<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen in Florida\u2019s warm climate<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>Spreads 3-20 feet<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"10-10-elliott%E2%80%99s-aster-symphyotrichum-elliottii-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"10-elliotts-aster-symphyotrichum-elliottii\">10. Elliott\u2019s aster (<em>Symphyotrichum elliottii<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_aster-g56e708d01_1280.jpg\" alt=\"Elliott's aster light purple flowers\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Elliott&#8217;s aster has light purple flowers that bloom in late fall. Photo Credit: ds_30 | <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/photos\/aster-dumosum-flower-symphyotrichum-4969614\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most flowers bloom in spring or summer, leaving your landscape bare and colorless for half the year. Enter Elliott\u2019s aster. These lavender flowers unfurl their petals in late fall to add a pop of color when your garden needs it most.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The blooms are fragrant and plentiful, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One potential issue: Elliott\u2019s aster spreads aggressively, so you\u2019ll have to cut it back regularly (unless you want to turn your whole yard into a blanket of purple blossoms).&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Flower<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>8a-11b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Moist soils (like those near stream banks or wetlands)<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>3-5 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"11-11-fakahatchee-grass-tripsacum-dactyloides-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"11-fakahatchee-grass-tripsacum-dactyloides\">11. Fakahatchee grass (<em>Tripsacum dactyloides<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_1tripsacum_dactyloides_var_floridanum_4zz.jpg\" alt=\"Fakahatchee grass\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fakahatchee grass is a hardy ornamental grass that makes a great border for a flower bed or driveway. Photo Credit: David J. Stang | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Tripsacum_dactyloides_var._floridanum_4zz.jpg\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wikimedia Commons<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Want tall ornamental grass to border a flower bed or driveway? Fakahatchee grass is a native option. In appearance, it\u2019s pretty standard for ornamental grass, with long, crisp, spear-shaped blades. In South Florida, it may sprout red spikes of flowers in late spring to mid-summer.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fakahatchee grass is impressively hardy and can survive both drought and flooding (making it an excellent choice for <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/rain-garden-benefits\/\">rain gardens<\/a>).&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Ornamental grass<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>8a-11b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun or partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Can survive in most soils as long as they have some drainage<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>4-6 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"12-12-fern-native-species-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"12-fern-native-species\">12. Fern native species&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_1024px-acrostichum_danaeifolium_giant_leather_fern_sanibel_island_florida_usa_2_24420560006.jpg\" alt=\"close-up of fronds from a giant leather fern plant\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Giant leather fern makes a great landscape plant with its large, glossy fronds. Photo Credit: James St. John | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.m.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Acrostichum_danaeifolium_(giant_leather_fern)_(Sanibel_Island,_Florida,_USA)_2_(24420560006).jpg\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wikimedia Commons<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/deed.en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ferns come in all shapes, sizes, and textures, and Florida\u2019s native ferns don\u2019t disappoint in variety. Whether you want a ground cover, a garden backdrop, a potted porch plant, or an interesting specimen, you can find a Florida native fern to fit the bill.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are a few examples:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Southern shield fern (<em>Thelypteris kunthii)<\/em>: Grows 1-3 feet tall and works well as a ground cover; soft and feathery fronds with sawtooth-patterned leaves<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Swamp fern (<em>Telmatoblechnum serrulatum)<\/em>: Grows 2-3 feet tall and occurs naturally near swamps and wetlands; wide fronds with leathery, glossy leaves<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Giant leather fern (<em>Acrostichum danaeifolium)<\/em>: Grows 6-12 feet tall and works well in the landscape as a background planting, specimen plant, or even a hedge; large, glossy fronds that grow in a clump, reaching up tall and cascading outward from the center&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Venus maidenhair fern (<em>Adiantum capillus-veneris<\/em>): Grows 1-2 feet tall and grows well in a container or in the ground as ground cover; light green leaves with an unusual shape, very different from your typical fern<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Long strap fern (<em>Campyloneurum phyllitidis)<\/em>: Grows 2-3 feet tall and makes a showy specimen plant; long, light green leaves that look like kelp<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a general rule, ferns love moist conditions and shade. Research the specific species you want in your yard to find out what conditions it needs before you plant.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Fern<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>7a-10b (varies by species)<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Partial or full shade (some species may tolerate full sun)<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Moist but well-draining soils (some species may tolerate drier conditions)<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Some species are deciduous and some are evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>Anywhere from 1 foot tall and wide to 12 feet tall and 6 feet wide, depending on species&nbsp;<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"13-13-firebush-hamelia-patens-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"13-firebush-hamelia-patens\">13. Firebush (<em>Hamelia patens<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_firebush_hamelia_patens_2.jpg\" alt=\"bright red firebush blooms in clusters\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Firebush brightens your yard from spring until winter. Photo Credit: Mokkie | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Firebush_(Hamelia_patens)_2.jpg\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wikimedia Commons<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/3.0\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Firebush is so named because from spring until winter, this shrub is covered in splashes of bright red or red-orange from many clusters of tubular flowers. While they add color to your landscape, the flowers also attract many birds and butterflies.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And the shrub itself is drought-tolerant, heat-tolerant, pest-resistant, and disease-resistant.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Shrub<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>8a-11b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun or partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Tolerates most soils as long as they drain well<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>8-12 feet tall and 8-12 feet wide without support; Can reach up to 15 feet if growing up a trellis or other structure<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"14-14-gumbo-limbo-tree-bursera-simaruba-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"14-gumbo-limbo-tree-bursera-simaruba\">14. Gumbo-limbo tree (<em>Bursera simaruba<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_11024px-gumbo_limbo_tree_desoto_national_monument.jpg\" alt=\"large gumbo limbo with a thick trunk and thick limbs\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Gumbo-limbo is perfect for Florida since it thrives in the hot, tropical climate and can withstand strong winds. Photo Credit: Milo44 | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Gumbo_Limbo_Tree_DeSoto_National_Monument.JPG\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wikimedia Commons<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/3.0\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you live in South Florida or the Keys, a gumbo-limbo is a great choice for a shade tree. It loves the hot, humid tropical climate, and it withstands strong winds, which will come in handy during hurricane season.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The leaves are bright green and stand out against this tree\u2019s real point of interest: its reddish, peeling bark. The gumbo-limbo also produces clusters of tiny light green flowers in late winter through spring.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Tree<strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>10b-11b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun or partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Sandy soils or clay soils with good drainage<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Deciduous&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>30 to 40 feet tall with a canopy of up to 60 feet<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"15-15-lanceleaf-blanket-flower-gaillardia-aestivalis-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"15-lanceleaf-blanket-flower-gaillardia-aestivalis\">15. Lanceleaf blanket flower (<em>Gaillardia aestivalis<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_shutterstock_1806637762.jpg\" alt=\"bright yellow lanceleaf blanket flower\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Lanceleaf blanket flower makes a great ground cover for North and Central Florida landscapes. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/new-delhi-india-august-31-2020-1806637762\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Shutterstock<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most common blanket flower (<em>Gaillardia pulchella)<\/em> is widely sold, but lanceleaf blanket flower is a similar species native to North and Central Florida.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The lanceleaf blanket flower grows in clumps, like most species of blanket flower. Its blooms have an interesting shape with fan-like petals, and they\u2019re usually yellow or yellow and red.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may choose to include lanceleaf blanket flowers alongside other wildflowers in a garden or use this plant as a ground cover since it spreads in a clumping growth habit.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Flower or ground cover<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>3a-10b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Tolerates most soils as long as they drain well<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Short-lived perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>1-3 feet tall and up to 2-foot spread per plant<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"16-16-marsh-hibiscus-hibiscus-coccineus-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"16-marsh-hibiscus-hibiscus-coccineus\">16. Marsh hibiscus (<em>Hibiscus coccineus<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_marsh_mallow_of_lake_woodruff___wild_hibiscus_-_flickr_-_andrea_westmoreland.jpg\" alt=\"Marsh Mallow of Lake Woodruff\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Marsh hibiscus adds a colorful, tropical touch to your landscape. Photo Credit: Andrea Westmoreland from DeLand | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Marsh_Mallow_of_Lake_Woodruff_~_Wild_Hibiscus_-_Flickr_-_Andrea_Westmoreland.jpg\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wikimedia Commons<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Florida\u2019s native hibiscus is the marsh hibiscus, also known as swamp mallow or scarlet rosemallow. In mid- to late summer, it blooms with huge, deep pink flowers with brown or fuchsia centers. Even though it naturally occurs near streams, ponds, and wetlands, the marsh hibiscus also can tolerate drier soils.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a specimen plant, it adds a colorful, tropical touch to the landscape.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Flower<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>8a-10b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun or partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Does best in wet soils but tolerates some dry soils<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>4-8 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"17-17-milkweed-native-species-asclepias-spp-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"17-milkweed-native-species-asclepias-spp\">17. Milkweed native species (<em>Asclepias spp.)<\/em><\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_rsz_0509200941a.jpg\" alt=\"bright orange butterfly milkweed\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Butterfly milkweed is one of the best plants to add to your landscape to attract butterflies. Photo Credit: Sharon Sullivan | Lawn Love<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Milkweed is one of the best flowers for a pollinator garden. It\u2019s most famous for attracting butterflies with its nectar and serving as a host plant for caterpillars. It also provides nectar for bees.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are several milkweed species native to Florida with different color flowers, so you can choose the one that best fits your palette.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some Florida native milkweeds:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Butterfly milkweed (<em>Asclepias tuberosa)<\/em>: By far the most common native species and the only native you\u2019ll find at many nurseries; bright orange flowers<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Clasping milkweed (<em>Asclepias amplexicaulis)<\/em>: Pink flowers<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Curtiss\u2019 milkweed (<em>Asclepias curtissii<\/em>): White flowers<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Pineland milkweed (<em>Asclepias obovata): <\/em>Greenish flowers<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Savannah milkweed (<em>Asclepias pedicellata)<\/em>: Yellowish flowers<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most of the milkweeds you find at the nursery are non-natives, so ask about them before purchasing.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Flower<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>4a-10a (varies by species)<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Dry, sandy soils<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Some species are perennials and some are annuals<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>1-4 feet tall and less than a foot wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"18-18-muhly-grass-muhlenbergia-capillaris-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"18-muhly-grass-muhlenbergia-capillaris\">18. Muhly grass (<em>Muhlenbergia capillaris<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/rsz_38137699632_15331ae7a7_c.jpg\" alt=\"Gulf muhly, light pink ornamental grass\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">If you want to add some softness to your landscape, consider colorful muhly grass. Photo Credit: smallcurio | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/smallcurio\/38137699632\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Muhly grass is an ornamental grass that\u2019s a little more interesting to look at than the usual. It grows in clumps that sprout tufts of soft, fuzzy flowers in fall. When in bloom, muhly grass looks like a cloud of pink, white, or purple.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The visual effect works best when you plant several tufts together in a group or as a border around a landscape bed.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Ornamental grass<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>7a-11b&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Can grow in most soils, including flooded soils that drain poorly<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Semi-evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>2-3 feet tall and up to 3 feet wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"19-19-oakleaf-hydrangea-hydrangea-quercifolia-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"19-oakleaf-hydrangea-hydrangea-quercifolia\">19. Oakleaf hydrangea (<em>Hydrangea quercifolia<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_oak-leaf-hydrangea-g2a092c2ed_1280.jpg\" alt=\"close-up of clusters of white flowers from an Oakleaf hydrangea plant\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Oakleaf hydrangea brings color to your yard year-round with white flowers in spring and summer and red and orange leaves in fall. Photo Credit: leoleobobeo | <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/photos\/oak-leaf-hydrangea-turning-pink-1432258\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Oakleaf hydrangea is a shrub that grows best in full shade, so it\u2019s perfect if you need something to plant under a large tree.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It has leaves shaped like oak leaves (thus the name) that can grow up to a foot wide, and it produces clusters of small white flowers in spring and early summer. In fall, the large leaves change to bright red and orange to add fall color to your landscape.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Shrub<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>5a-9a&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Can grow in most soils but does best with good drainage&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Deciduous&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>6-12 feet tall and 6-12 feet wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"20-20-palm-natives\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"20-palm-natives\">20. Palm natives<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_50150128447_c406417be3_c.jpg\" alt=\"close up of palm fronds form a sabal palm\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Florida is known for its majestic palm trees.  Photo Credit: Calmuziclover | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/29787167@N02\/50150128447\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nothing says Florida like a palm tree. Palms love the state\u2019s hot summers and mild winters, and you have many native species of different sizes to choose from.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are just a few Florida native palms:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Sabal palm (<em>Sabal palmetto)<\/em>: Florida\u2019s state tree with a classic palm look; grows up to 40 feet tall&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Saw palmetto (<em>Serenoa repens)<\/em>: Small, multi-trunked palm that grows in clumps and works well as a ground cover; grows 5-10 feet tall<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Needle palm (<em>Rhapidophyllum hystrix<\/em>): Low-growing palm that resembles a shrub with dark green, fan-shaped leaves; grows up to 8 feet tall<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Royal palm (<em>Roystonea regia<\/em>): Tall palm with a brown trunk that turns to green toward the crown and long fronds that cascade in all directions; grows up to 70 feet tall<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Everglades palm (<em>Acoelorrhaphe wrightii<\/em>): Medium-height palm that grows in clusters of multiple trunks and spreads freely; grows up to 30 feet tall&nbsp;<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beware that some of Florida\u2019s native palms don\u2019t tolerate cold at all and may not be suitable for the northern part of the state.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Palm<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>Varies a lot by species<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Some species need full sun while others can tolerate partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Dry, well-draining soils, like sandy soils<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>Varies a lot by species<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"21-21-powderpuff-mimosa-mimosa-strigillosa-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"21-powderpuff-mimosa-mimosa-strigillosa\">21. Powderpuff mimosa (<em>Mimosa strigillosa<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_mimosa-g6daa51c18_1280.jpg\" alt=\"close-up of a pink powderpuff mimosa flower\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Powderpuff mimosa makes a great colorful ground cover. Photo Credit: jodylehigh | <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/photos\/mimosa-strigillosa-powderpuff-199576\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Did you ever read <em>The Lorax<\/em> as a child? The whimsical powderpuff mimosa flower will remind you of tiny truffula trees. Powderpuff mimosa grows along the ground and spreads quickly, so it makes a great ground cover.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The pink \u201cpowder puffs\u201d bloom from spring through fall, and the plant also sports tiny fern-like fronds.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Flower or ground cover<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>8a-10b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun or partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Moist loam and sandy soils that drain well<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>3-4 inches tall and spreads up to 100 feet wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"22-22-scarlet-salvia-salvia-coccinea-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"22-scarlet-salvia-salvia-coccinea\">22. Scarlet salvia (<em>Salvia coccinea<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_1salvia_splendens_red_hot_sally_0zz.jpg\" alt=\"close-up of clusters of vibrant scarlet salvia flowers\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Scarlet salvia adds color and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds spring through fall. Photo Credit: David J. Stang | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Salvia_splendens_Red_Hot_Sally_0zz.jpg\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wikimedia Commons<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scarlet salvia is a tall flower that produces a spike of bright red, tubular blooms from spring through fall. These flowers are excellent for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. Scarlet salvia can thrive in a variety of conditions, and it\u2019s drought-tolerant.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Flower<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>7a-11b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun or partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Sandy, loam, or rocky soils that drain well<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>1-4 feet tall and 9-18 inches wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"23-23-sea-grape-coccoloba-uvifera-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"23-sea-grape-coccoloba-uvifera\">23. Sea grape (<em>Coccoloba uvifera<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_11488249813_c0123daf5a_c.jpg\" alt=\"long clusters of sea grapes surrounded by large leaves\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">You can find sea grape along the beaches of Central and South Florida. Photo Credit: Malcolm Manners | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/mmmavocado\/11488249813\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sea grape grows naturally on the coasts of Central and South Florida, where it\u2019s protected as an endangered species. It\u2019s very sensitive to cold, so you won\u2019t be able to grow this one if you live in North Florida, where winter temperatures occasionally dip below freezing.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you live in the warmer areas of the state, you can grow sea grape as a shrub or small tree, depending on how you prune it.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sea grape\u2019s round, light green leaves make for interesting foliage, and you can eat the tiny fruits that grow in grape-like clusters and taste something like muscadine grapes.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Shrub or small tree<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>9a-11b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun or partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Sandy soils&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>10-50 feet (height depends on how you prune it) and 20-30 feet wide at the crown<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"24-24-southern-live-oak-quercus-virginiana-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"24-southern-live-oak-quercus-virginiana\">24. Southern live oak (<em>Quercus virginiana<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_1live_southern_oak_trees_at_the_big_house_of_whitney_plantation_-_2016.jpg\" alt=\"Southern live oak\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Southern live oak is a common shade tree in the South. Photo Credit: Bill Leiser | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Live_Southern_Oak_trees_at_The_Big_House_of_Whitney_Plantation_-_2016.jpg\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wikimedia Commons<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The southern live oak is a classic shade tree throughout the southern United States, including Florida. Like most oaks, the branches of this tree sprawl dozens of feet in all directions and hang down low to the ground.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You need LOTS of space on your property if you want to plant one and watch it grow over the years.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Tree<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>8a-10b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun or partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Moist soils that drain well<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size:<\/strong> Up to 60 feet tall with a spread of up to 100 feet<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"25-25-southern-wax-myrtle-myrica-cerifera-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"25-southern-wax-myrtle-myrica-cerifera\">25. Southern wax myrtle (<em>Myrica cerifera<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_1024px-myrica_cerifera_0zz.jpg\" alt=\"Southern wax myrtle\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Southern wax myrtle is hardy and can grow in different light and soil conditions. Photo Credit: David J. Stang | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Myrica_cerifera_0zz.jpg\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wikimedia Commons<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Southern wax myrtle is a tall shrub with olive green, glossy leaves. It grows dense, so several of them together work well as hedges or wind screens. They tend to attract birds and butterflies with their berries. Southern wax myrtles do well on the coasts because they\u2019re highly salt-tolerant.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Shrub<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>7b-11b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Can grow in any light conditions, from full sun to full shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Tolerates most soil conditions, even poorly draining soil that floods&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>Can grow up to 25 feet, but usually seen at no more than 12 feet in landscapes<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"26-26-star-anise-illicium-spp-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"26-star-anise-illicium-spp\">26. Star anise (<em>Illicium spp.<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_43821280232_db8d761e2a_c.jpg\" alt=\"large green leaves of a yellow star anise plant\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Grow yellow star anise as a hedge or ornamental plant. Photo Credit: Homer Edward Price | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/28340342@N08\/43821280232\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Are you familiar with the star anise spice? It comes from <em>Illicium vera<\/em>, a star anise plant native to China and Vietnam. Florida has two of its own native species from the same family. They don\u2019t produce the spice, but the leaves give off a strong licorice-like scent when crushed.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Star anises in general are shrubs that grow very quickly. You can let them grow tall and use them as a hedge or windbreak or prune them shorter as an ornamental plant in the landscape.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They tolerate harsh growing conditions (although they have little to no salt tolerance), and they don\u2019t usually have any problems with pests.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are more details on Florida\u2019s native star anise species:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Florida anise (<em>Illicium floridanum)<\/em>: Blooms dark red, star-shaped flowers in spring; native to the Northwest Panhandle; Foliage is poisonous&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Yellow star anise (<em>Illicium parviflorum)<\/em>: Produces tiny, cup-shaped yellow blooms in spring and fruits in late summer or early fall; native to Central Florida; leaves and fruit are poisonous&nbsp;<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Shrub<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>7a-10b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Does best in partial shade; grows in full shade but thinner&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Tolerates most soils as long as there\u2019s no high salt content and plenty of moisture<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>15-20 feet tall and 8-15 feet wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"27-27-tickseed-coreopsis-spp-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"27-tickseed-coreopsis-spp\">27. Tickseed (<em>Coreopsis spp.<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_florida_tickseed_coreopsis_floridana_6397197373.jpg\" alt=\"close-up of a bright yellow tickseed flower\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Yellow tickseed flower is the official state flower of the Sunshine State. Photo Credit: Bob Peterson from North Palm Beach | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Florida_tickseed_(Coreopsis_floridana)_(6397197373).jpg\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wikimedia Commons<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tickseed flowers are like little drops of sunshine, so it makes sense that they\u2019re the official state wildflower of the Sunshine State. There are more than 100 different species and cultivars of tickseed, but most are the brightest yellow with a ring of brown around the center.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Like most wildflowers, they bloom in spring and summer.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can find tickseed seeds just about anywhere in Florida, and once you have them growing in your yard, tickseeds will reseed themselves so you don\u2019t have to plant again.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Flower<strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>4a-10b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Does best in full sun but tolerates partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Tolerates most soils as long as they drain well&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Some species are annuals and some are perennials<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>1-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide (size depends on the species)<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"28-28-walter%E2%80%99s-viburnum-viburnum-obovatum-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"28-walters-viburnum-viburnum-obovatum\">28. Walter\u2019s viburnum (<em>Viburnum obovatum<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_29534434604_92af0cdbb6_c.jpg\" alt=\"close-up of small white flowers of Walter\u2019s viburnum\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">If you&#8217;re looking to add a vibrant green shrub or tree to your yard, consider Walter\u2019s viburnum. Photo Credit: Katja Schulz | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/treegrow\/29534434604\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Walter\u2019s viburnum is a shrub or small tree, depending on how you prune it. Some cultivars grow up to 20 feet tall, but there are also dwarf varieties if you\u2019re looking for a smaller shrub. Year-round, Walter\u2019s viburnum has glossy, dark green leaves that grow densely.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then, in spring, masses of small white flowers stand out brilliantly against the leaves.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Walter\u2019s viburnum spreads by root suckers and can grow \u201cclone\u201d plants. If you don\u2019t want to let it spread freely, you\u2019ll have to be vigilant about pruning the plant and removing the suckers.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Shrub or small tree<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>7a-10b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun or partial shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Tolerates most soils&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>10-15 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"29-29-wild-coffee-psychotria-nervosa-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"29-wild-coffee-psychotria-nervosa\">29. Wild coffee (<em>Psychotria nervosa<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_30642822106_ac41b814a1_c.jpg\" alt=\"shiny leaf wild coffee with red berries\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Wild coffee shrub produces bright red berries in summer and fall. Photo Credit: Katja Schulz | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/treegrow\/30642822106\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flickr<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can\u2019t make a morning cup of Joe with a wild coffee shrub, but you can add a jolt of energy to your landscape. The bright green leaves are glossy and have an interesting ridged texture, and bright red berries bring an extra pop of color in summer and fall.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The contrasting red and green can remind you of the holidays even in the middle of the year.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wild coffee\u2019s fruits attract birds and other wildlife, and the small white flowers that bloom in spring and summer are a source of nectar for Southeast Florida\u2019s rare and beautiful Atala butterfly.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Shrub&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>10b-11b<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Partial shade or full shade<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Doesn\u2019t like heavy clay soils&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Perennial<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>4-10 feet tall and 4-8 feet wide<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"30-30-yucca-native-species-yucca-spp-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"30-yucca-native-species-yucca-spp\">30. Yucca native species (<em>Yucca spp.)<\/em><\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_11024px-yucca_filamentosa_adams_needle_1_39840491972.jpg\" alt=\"Adam's needle yucca plant\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Adam&#8217;s needle is one of three native yucca plants in Florida. Photo Credit: James St. John | <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.m.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Yucca_filamentosa_(Adam%27s_needle)_1_(39840491972).jpg\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wikimedia Commons<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/deed.en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yucca plants are much like succulents in that they need lots of sun and fast-draining soils. They can survive long periods with no water, and they do well in high heat and humidity (hello, Florida). Yucca plants are very easy to grow, especially in their native range.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Florida has 3 native yucca species:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Spanish bayonet (<em>Yucca aloifolia)<\/em>: Sharp-tipped, spear-shaped leaves that fan out in a circle from the center of the plant; produces drooping clusters of little bell-shaped white flowers that stick out above the foliage in spring to late summer; native along all of Florida\u2019s coasts<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Adam\u2019s needle (<em>Yucca filamentosa)<\/em>: Hard, sharp, spear-shaped leaves covered with stringy filaments that look like hair; produces large, upright clusters of bulbous white flowers for several weeks in summer; native throughout most of Florida except the extreme south<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Moundlily yucca (<em>Yucca gloriosa<\/em>): Large rosette of very sharp spine-tipped leaves; upright clusters of white flowers rise 6-8 feet above the foliage; native to a few small areas in North Florida&nbsp;<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Growth habit: <\/strong>Shrub<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Hardiness zones: <\/strong>5a-10b (varies by species)<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Sunlight needs: <\/strong>Full sun&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Soil needs: <\/strong>Fast-draining sandy soils&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Duration: <\/strong>Some species are annuals and others are perennials&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Foliage: <\/strong>Evergreen<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>2-10 feet tall and 2-6 feet wide (size depends on the species)<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/popular-landscape-plants-florida\/\">Florida\u2019s Top 10 Most Popular Landscape Plants<\/a><\/p><\/li>    <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/flowers-that-bloom-year-round-florida\/\">15 Flowers That Bloom Year-Round in Florida<\/a><\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"31-why-native-plants\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"why-native-plants\">Why native plants?<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Native plants are any plants that naturally occur in your area. Since Florida is their \u201chome,\u201d they have adapted to survive in the local climate and to resist local pests and plant diseases. The results of all those adaptations are plants that essentially take care of themselves once established.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So, native plants are easier to take care of than non-natives. There are other <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu\/media\/sfylifasufledu\/sarasota\/documents\/pdf\/fcs\/2023_FCS_factsheetWaysToSave_aroundYourHomeVERT_FINAL_ADA.pdf\">native plant benefits<\/a>, too.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Native plants:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Use less water <\/strong>than non-natives because natural rainfall is usually enough to sustain them<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Have fewer pests and diseases <\/strong>because they\u2019re naturally resistant, which means they don\u2019t need as many pesticides or fungicides as non-natives&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Rarely need fertilizer <\/strong>to grow strong and healthy, as long as you plant them in a spot with the right soil and sunlight conditions<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Benefit local wildlife <\/strong>such as birds and pollinators by providing food, shelter, and nectar<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Help preserve the natural ecosystem <\/strong>of your area, unlike non-natives, which can be invasive&nbsp;<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Native plants are better for you and for the environment. And as you can see, there are many beautiful varieties of natives in Florida. There\u2019s no downside.&nbsp;<\/p>    <h2 id=\"32-choosing-the-right-native-plants-for-your-yard\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"choosing-the-right-native-plants-for-your-yard\">Choosing the right native plants for your yard<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not every Florida native plant will be right for every yard. Specific plants need specific conditions, such as sunlight and soil type, to thrive.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are the things you should know about a plant before you can decide if it\u2019s right for you.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"33-hardiness-zones\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"hardiness-zones\">Hardiness zones<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/USDA-Florida-Hardiness-Map-1.png\" alt=\"USDA Florida Hardiness Map\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">USDA Florida Hardiness Map Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/planthardiness.ars.usda.gov\/system\/files\/FL150_HS.png\">USDA<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The USDA has developed \u201cplant hardiness zones\u201d that represent the lowest yearly temperatures in an area. Zones go from 1a (the coldest) to 13b (the hottest).&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/florida-planting-zones\/\">Florida\u2019s hardiness zones<\/a> range from 8a in the northwest to 11a in the southeast. <a href=\"https:\/\/planthardiness.ars.usda.gov\/pages\/map-downloads\">Learn your area\u2019s hardiness zone<\/a> and always make sure a plant is suited for your zone before purchasing it. Otherwise, your plants may freeze and die in winter.&nbsp;<\/p>    <h3 id=\"34-sunlight-needs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"sunlight-needs\">Sunlight needs<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/rsz_1poppies-g416b18c41_1280.jpg\" alt=\"poppies reaching up toward the sunlight\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Know how much sunlight your plants need every day to grow. Photo Credit: A_Werdan | <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/photos\/poppies-flowers-sunlight-sun-bloom-399409\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Different plants need different amounts of sunlight every day. They may need:&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Full sun:<\/strong> At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Partial sun or partial shade: <\/strong>3 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Full shade:<\/strong> Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight per day, preferably in the morning<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pay attention to how long the sun touches each area of your yard every day so you can choose the best plants for each spot.&nbsp;<\/p>    <h3 id=\"35-soil-needs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"soil-needs\">Soil needs<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/soil-types\/\">Learn your soil type<\/a> and soil pH before planting anything new. Different plants thrive in soils with different levels of drainage and different acidity.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Growing plants that aren\u2019t suited to your natural soil type will result in lots of extra work for you because you\u2019ll have to amend your soil every season.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"36-duration\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"duration\">Duration<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Duration determines how long a plant lasts.&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Annuals<\/strong> bloom for only 1 season, and you have to replace them the next year.&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Biennials<\/strong> bloom for 2 seasons before needing a replacement.&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Perennials <\/strong>will keep coming back and blooming year after year. Short-lived perennials last only a few years, maybe less than 5, while long-lived perennials last for several years.&nbsp;<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"37-foliage\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"foliage\">Foliage<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The foliage of a plant is its leaves. Evergreen plants keep their leaves all year long, while the leaves of deciduous plants change colors and fall off the branches in fall, leaving the plant bare through winter.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you want to create a hedge or windscreen that lasts throughout the year, you\u2019ll need evergreen plants.&nbsp;<\/p>    <h3 id=\"38-mature-size\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"mature-size\">Mature size<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The size of a plant when you purchase it from the nursery won\u2019t be the size of the plant forever. Plan your garden according to the mature sizes of plants so they all have plenty of space to grow and thrive.&nbsp;<\/p>    <h2 id=\"39-where-to-find-more-native-plants-for-florida\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"where-to-find-more-native-plants-for-florida\">Where to find more native plants for Florida<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not satisfied with these plants? There are many more Florida natives. These resources can help you find the perfect native addition to your landscape:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu\/plants\/ornamentals\/native-plants\/\">University of Florida\u2019s native plants database<\/a><\/p><\/li>    <li><p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fnps.org\/plant\">Florida Native Plant Society<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/ask.ifas.ufl.edu\/publication\/ep297\">Native plants overview<\/a> from UF\/IFAS<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Native plants make a great foundation for a low-maintenance, environmentally friendly landscape. Once you\u2019ve taken this first step, you\u2019ll be all set for more <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-orlando\/\">low-maintenance landscaping tips<\/a> like xeriscaping, using mulch, or installing hardscapes.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/drought-tolerant-landscaping-ideas\/\">12 Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Ideas<\/a><\/p><\/li>    <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/xeriscape-ideas\/\">Xeriscape Ideas to Transform Your Yard (Without Living in a Desert)<\/a><\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"40-faqs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-17901026579389503\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When is the best time to plant Florida natives?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Fall and early winter are the best time to plant in most of Florida. Cooler, wetter months let roots settle in before the heat of spring and summer, so your natives establish with far less watering.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-17901026579381930\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can native plants still spread too much in my yard?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A few can. Vigorous growers like Elliott&#8217;s aster and powderpuff mimosa spread quickly, so give them room to roam or trim them back regularly to keep your beds tidy.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-17901026579389287\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Which Florida native is the most low-maintenance?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Tickseed, firebush, and muhly grass are among the easiest to grow. They shrug off heat and drought, resist pests, and rarely need fertilizer once established in the right spot.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 id=\"41-let-lawnlove-handle-your-florida-yard\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"let-lawnlove-handle-your-florida-yard\">Let LawnLove handle your Florida yard<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Native plants make a beautiful, low-maintenance foundation for your landscape, but even easy gardens need an occasional helping hand. Let LawnLove&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnlove.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=mowing\">local lawn care pros<\/a> take care of the work so you can sit back and enjoy the Florida sunshine instead of working and sweating in it.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/jsjgeology\/53477227178\/in\/photolist-2ptALwf-aNFABZ\">James St. John<\/a> | Flickr | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover 30 of the best native plants for Florida, from wildflowers and shrubs to trees, palms, and grasses, plus the zone, sun, and soil needs for each.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":33,"featured_media":23040,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[216],"tags":[534],"class_list":["post-7356","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-florida","tag-lawn-care-fl"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Elliotts-aster.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Jordan Ardoin","author_link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/author\/jordan-ardoin\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7356","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/33"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7356"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7356\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":49188,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7356\/revisions\/49188"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/23040"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7356"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7356"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7356"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}