Any pruning should happen during the growing season, not when the plant is dormant. This small tree is listed as Endangered by the FDACS.  Please acquire from reputable sources with proper permits. Small specimen tree where its large leaves give it interest. Its large white flowers are an asset in mid-spring.

Very similar in appearance to several non-natives which are invasive pests, esp. N. cordifolia. If there are spherical tubers amongst the roots, it's N. cordifolia, the invasive tuberous swordfern.  In this vein, it appears that herbarium specimens from further north than indicated on our map have been reclassified as something other than N. exaltata.  We do not show those areas on our map. Groundcover especially in shady moist areas. Spreads by rhizomes.

New leaves are rusty-orange. Easy to care for. Can grow as a small tree or a shrub. Use where this small tree's interesting shape will be an asset. Does well as a small specimen tree near walkways. Also useful as a screen in dry settings.

Groundcover. Foliage is low and neat even during periods when there are no flowers (flowers in mid-spring). Plant not visible in winter. Can be naturalized in sunny areas. Can be used as a border plant or in a damp meadow.

Wildflower garden especially in sandy or coastal areas.