These are generally moist site ferns though some (T. kunthii, T. ovata) grow in mesic uplands. Most are similar in appearance, and all will grow in a moist, shady garden setting. Most are adaptable and easy to grow. Groundcover recommended for natural landscapes and habitat restoration.

This is an ENDANGERED plant (listed both Florida and US). Please acquire this endemic plant only from a reputable source. One of several cactus species that is attacked by the cactus moth, Cactoblastis cactorum, which arrived in Florida in 1989, and this invasive species has become a serious threat to the diversity and abundance of Consolea corallicola and Opuntia cacti in North America. Specimen plant

Small specimen tree. Slow growing. Hedge.

The range includes all of peninsular Florida and the southern parts of Georgia, and Alabama. Best used as a wildflower as it has a relatively short lifespan.

Tolerates winter flooding. This is a wetland plant. It is rarely grown, but it has potential in appropriate sites. Wet wildflower garden. For appearance, cut back to the ground in winter.

There are two subspecies in Florida with somewhat different but overlapping distributions. Culture and uses in the landscape are similar. It is best to use local sources. Small wildflower. Typically seen in spring or after rain. Grows in small tufts. Plant in low border on intermixed with a groundcover. Inconspicuous when not in bloom. Individual plants are short-lived perennials, but clumps persist for many years.

This forms clumps but does not form large clones, which means it will not take over a garden. Wildflower garden

Sometimes difficult to establish in new areas, but definitely worth the effort. Wildflower garden, meadow.

Sawgrass is a sedge, not a grass. It was this plant that Marjory Stoneman Douglas referred to in her seminal work: "The Everglades: River of Grass." A second species (C. mariscoides) occurs in a limited area in north Florida.  Its uses and culture are similar. Typically used in wetland restoration. Also useful for planting in brackish settings where an emergent aquatic is desired. Spreads rapidly to cover large areas.

Retain in the landscape for coastal protection where present. Used for dune restoration.

Three species occur in Florida. Please plant your local variety. Wildflower garden where it is very showy in late summer/early fall.

May be semi-parasitic on the roots of other plants which makes it challenging to grow. Best planted near a potential host such as an oak. May die back in winter in northern parts of its range, Hedge plant, wildlife plant. Large shrub which can be trained as a tree in the right conditions. Crown is narrow and irregular and the trunks and branches are crooked or twisting.

While generally a swamp plant, this tree can grow in uplands.  Stems root readily and most of the stems stuck in a moist substrate will survive without any further care. Is often used in stream bank restoration. Casual lanscapes, moist areas, rain gardens or bioswales. This tree can be attractive most of the year due to its fairly fine leaves. It is at its best for a brief period in early spring when it blooms (yellow) and then sets masses of white fruit at a time when little else is blooming. Will tolerate root disturbance and flooding.

Night blooming, fragrant.

Low ground-hugging ground cover in restoration areas, in ditches, and on wetland edges.