10 Plants Native to
Florida
By Austin Mulet-Johnson
The Swamp
Milkweed
• The Swamp Milkweed, also
called the Pink Milkweed, is a
tall flowering plant that is native
to our marshes and swamps,
such as the mighty Everglades.
Its scientific name is Asclepias
Incarnata, and was named so
after the Greek god
Aesculapius, and was used for
medicinal purposes
American Beautyberry
▪ This plant, also called
the Callicarpa americana, is a
fruit-producing bush that is
usually about 3-5ft tall, and the
same wide, and can be found in
most southern states in the U.S
and also makes beautiful purple
flowers
ThePhoto by PhotoAuthor is licensed under CCYYSA.
The Firebush Firebush thrives in warm, tropical climates and is commonly found in Central and South
America.
Firebush prefers well-drained, sandy soils and can grow well in full sun to partial shade.
Bright, tubular flowers of Firebush attract hummingbirds and butterflies, adding beauty
and life to gardens
Firebush can grow up to 15 feet tall, appreciated for its medicinal properties and
ornamental value in gardens.
The Gumbo Limbo tree, also known as Bursera
simarouba, is native to tropical regions of the
Americas.
Often referred to as the 'tourist tree' due to its
red, peeling bark that resembles sunburnt
skin.
Gumbo Limbo is highly resilient and
adaptable, making it crucial for reforestation
projects in tropical regions.
The resin of the Gumbo Limbo tree is utilized
in making varnish and incense, highlighting its
versatility.
Gumbo Limbo Tree
The Coontie Plant The Coontie is native to Florida
and the Caribbean, thriving in
diverse soil types.
The Coontie features distinctive
feather-like leaves, making it a
unique addition to gardens.
Indigenous peoples historically
used Coontie roots to make flour,
showcasing its cultural
importance.
The Atala butterfly relies on the
Coontie for its larval stage,
highlighting its ecological role.
The Coral Honeysuckle
Coral Honeysuckle attracts hummingbirds and
butterflies with its vibrant, trumpet-shaped
flowers, enhancing the beauty of gardens.
This flower thrives in full sun and well-drained
soil, making it a great choice for full-sunlight
gardens
Coral Honeysuckle blooms from spring to fall,
providing a continuous splash of color with its red
and orange flowers.
The Sabal Palm is native to the
southeastern United States and
thrives in various environments.
This palm is highly resilient,
withstanding harsh conditions, making
it ideal for landscaping.
The Sabal Palm has fan-shaped leaves
and can grow up to 65 feet tall.
Its small, black fruit provides essential
food for various wildlife species.
The Sabal Palm
The coral bean is native to the southeastern
United States, thriving in warm climates.
Coral bean plants are known for their vibrant
red flowers that add ornamental beauty to
landscapes.
The plant produces distinctive bean-like seeds
that are visually striking but toxic if ingested.
Coral bean plants are often used in
landscaping for their ornamental beauty and
unique appearance.
Coral Bean Facts
Recognizable Appearance
The Black-Eyed Susan plant is known for its bright yellow petals and
dark brown center, making it easily recognizable.
Ideal Growing Conditions
This plant thrives in sunny locations and well-drained soil, making it
easy to grow in various garden settings.
Attracts Pollinators
Black-Eyed Susan attracts butterflies and bees, which makes it an
excellent choice for pollinator gardens.
Vibrant Garden Addition
Adding Black-Eyed Susan to your garden brings vibrant color and life,
enhancing the overall aesthetics and biodiversity.
Black-Eyed
Susan Plant
Beach Sunflower Beauty
Adaptability to Coastal Areas
Beach sunflower thrives in sandy soils and salt spray, making it an ideal
plant for beach environments.
Attracts Pollinators
The bright yellow flowers of the beach sunflower attract various pollinators,
including bees and butterflies.
Prevents Soil Erosion
The beach sunflower plays a crucial role in preventing soil erosion along
coastlines, contributing to environmental stability.
