10 Great Native Foundation Shrubs and Why You Should Plant Them

What are native plants?

“A Florida native plant refers to a species occurring within the state boundaries prior to European contact, according to the best available scientific and historical documentation.” —Florida Native Plant Society

Why natives?

•Adapted to our climate
•Require less water, pesticides and fertilizer
•Contribute to Florida’s ecosystems
•Convey a sense of place

Will my yard look a mess?

In a word: NO!

Foundation Basics:

•No “parsley around the pig,” please
•Think in layers and groups
•Allow for mature size of plant
•Don’t plant too close to the house (aim for half mature width plus a foot)

 

1. Coontie (Zamia floridana)
2. Swarf Walter's Viburnum (Viburnum obovatum ‘Mrs. Schiller’s Delight’)
3. Schilling’s Holly (Ilex vomitoria ‘Schillings Dwarf’)
4. Elliott’s Lovegrass (Eragrostis elliottii)
5. Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergua capillaris)
6. Blue Porterweed (Stachytarpheta jamaicensis)
7. Golden Creeper (Ernodea littoralis)
8. WIld Coffee (Psychotria nervosa)
9. Bluestem Palmetto (Sabal minor)
10. Simpson's Stopper (Myrcianthes fragrans)

 

For more information: 

• Florida Native Plant Society: fnps.org/plants
• University of Florida: edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_native_plants
• National Wildlife Federation: nwf.org