Shade tree. It is known for its smooth light gray bark. Its leaves turn yellow and then light brown remaining on the tree until nearly spring and providing interest to the winter landscape. If you are privileged to have this tree in the landscape, retain and protect it.

Wildflower garden especially in sunny moist areas.

Can be pruned. Works well as a specimen plant. Its thick, large leaves make it stand out from most other plants in the landscape. Very useful in settings subject to salt spray.

The blue tubular flower opens into 5 petal-like lobes with a white center. Several blossoms grow in a loose cluster. Narrow seed pods and dark yellow fall color make this an attractive garden plant. Wildflower garden. Blooms late spring. Fall foliage color is orange-yellow.

Endemic.  This plant is listed as endangered by the State of Florida. Harvesting and transporting from the wild require landowner permission and may require a permit from the state. Please acquire through a reputable native plant nursery. Wildflower garden, groundcover. Would also work well as a mass planting. Can be grown in containers.

Grow as an emergent along pond or lake edges or in aquatic gardens.