While it is related to chestnuts, its not generally subject to chestnut blight, and if it gets it, will likely recover. Natural settings as a small shade tree or large shrub.

There is potential name confusion with this species since it was formerly considered to be a subspecies of O. hirtellus (Oplismenus hirtellus subsp. setarius) The Florida Plant Atlas indicates that Oplismenus setarius is common in Florida. O. hirtellus (not the subspecies) has been documented from only one Florida county, and it is a non-native. This is a low groundcover that can be effective seasonally as a low-use turf in shady locations.

USF Plant Atlas location in Hillsborough appears to have been from seed in imported soil - the one in St. Lucie County has been removed from the FLAS database (likely it was an error). The Institute for Regional Conservation reports the species to be extirpated in Florida  though it is occasionally cultivated, potentially from imported plants.  Images provided here are from a specimen cultivated by Roger Hammer. Use as a specimen plant.

Retain if in the landscape. Can be used as a specimen plant in areas not subject to root disturbance.

The Florida Wildflower Foundation has a good pamphlet that includes culture of this species. Gray-green, fine foliage, border plant or individual speciments in a wildflower garden.

Listed as Endangered in Florida.  Please follow all State requirements for growing and transporting this species. Best used as a shoreline plant in the Sand Hill Lakes region of Bay and Washington counties. Treat as a thin, lacy background plant with shiny bark.

Specimen tree. Use only where roots will be undisturbed.

Closely related plants occur in the Caribbean and Central America. Yellow or orange flowering plants are not the Florida native. In recent years plants have been found growing wild near homesites in north Florida -- what you plant can escape into the wild if planted beyond the natural range. Please plant responsibly - this plant has the potential to be invasive when used outside of its natural range.   Please act responsibly. Specimen or hedge plant. Also works well in informal background thickets.

Forming a thicket for wildlife protection.

This is one of the world's most widespread species. Multiple subspecies exist  within Florida with two being widespread. Because of its tolerance of acidic soils, this is sometimes used for reclamation of acidic soil areas. Adapted to relatively frequent fire. Groundcover. This is one of the few ferns that can handle sun. Height will depend on variety with bracken ferns from South Florida typically being much larger than those from further north.