Flowers and Ground Covers

Lanceleaf coreopsis- (Coreopsis lanceolata) This 1-2ft tall wildflower is more commonly known as Lance-leaved tickseed. It is a perennial wildflower that grows best in meadows and wildflower beds. It grows in full sun to part shade and tolerates a range of soils. It blooms a bright yellow flower in spring and summer, and is a prolific self-seeder. Pollinators, butterflies, and other beneficial insects are attracted to this flower, and its seeds are eaten by birds and small wildlife. It is one of 13 Coreopsis native to Florida.

Mangrove Spider Lily(Hymenocallis Latifolia), commonly known as the Perfumed Spider Lily or Swamp Spider Lily, is an enchanting flowering plant that adds a touch of elegance and fragrance to wetland and aquatic landscapes. Native to the southeastern United States, particularly in swampy and marshy areas, this perennial plant typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet with a spread of about 1 to 2 feet. Hymenocallis Latifolia is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10, adapting well to subtropical and tropical climates.

Thriving in full sun to partial shade, the Mangrove Spider Lily prefers moist to wet soils and is often found along the edges of ponds, streams, and other water bodies. It features elegant white flowers with long, delicate petals that have a subtle, sweet fragrance, especially in the evenings, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant’s strap-like leaves create an attractive base for the flowers, adding to its visual appeal. When planting Hymenocallis Latifolia, space individual plants about 1 to 2 feet apart to allow for their growth and the development of their graceful blooms.

Sea Oxeye Daisy(Borrichia Frutescens) is a resilient and salt-tolerant coastal plant that contributes to the stabilization and biodiversity of coastal environments. Native to the southeastern United States and the Caribbean, this perennial shrub typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet with a similar spread. Borrichia Frutescens is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11, thriving in the challenging conditions of coastal habitats.

Thriving in full sun to partial shade, Sea Oxeye Daisy is specifically adapted to the harsh conditions of coastal areas, including sandy and salty soils. It is often found along dunes, salt marshes, and other coastal zones, where its dense growth habit helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion. The plant features vibrant yellow flowers that resemble daisies and bloom throughout the warmer months, providing a burst of color to coastal landscapes. The leaves are green and slightly fuzzy, adding to the plant’s visual appeal. When planting Borrichia Frutescens, space individual plants about 1 to 2 feet apart to allow for proper growth and the development of their characteristic bushy form.

Blue Porterweed(Stachytarpheta Jamaicensis) commonly known as Blue Porterweed or Jamaican Porterweed, is a delightful and versatile flowering plant that adds a splash of color and attracts pollinators to gardens and landscapes. Native to the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America, this perennial shrub typically grows to a height of 2 to 4 feet with a similar spread. Stachytarpheta Jamaicensis is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11, thriving in subtropical and tropical climates.

Thriving in full sun to partial shade, Blue Porterweed is adaptable to a range of growing conditions and soil types, making it a popular choice for gardens and naturalistic plantings. It features vibrant, tubular flowers that are a striking shade of blue or purple, attracting butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The plant’s slender stems are adorned with lance-shaped leaves, creating an appealing and textured foliage. When planting Stachytarpheta Jamaicensis, space individual plants about 2 to 3 feet apart to allow for their growth and the development of their colorful blooms.

Virgina Spiderwort– (Tradescantia Ohiensis) is a captivating native perennial plant that adds a burst of color and charm to gardens and natural landscapes. Native to eastern and central North America, this plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet with a spread of about 1 to 2 feet. Tradescantia Ohiensis is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9, adapting to a wide range of climates.

Thriving in full sun to partial shade, Virgina Spiderwort prefers well-draining soils and is often found in open woodlands, meadows, and along roadsides. It features vibrant, three-petaled flowers in shades of blue, pink, or purple that bloom in spring and early summer, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. The plant’s grass-like foliage adds texture and interest to the landscape, and its stems are often covered in fine hairs. When planting Tradescantia Ohiensis, space individual plants about 1 to 2 feet apart to allow for proper growth and the development of their colorful blooms.

Seaside Goldenrod-(Solidago sempervirens) is a resilient and attractive native perennial plant that brightens coastal landscapes with its cheerful yellow blooms. Native to the eastern United States, particularly along coastal regions, this plant typically grows to a height of 2 to 4 feet with a spread of about 1 to 2 feet. Solidago sempervirens is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9, thriving in a variety of climates.

Thriving in full sun to light shade, Seaside Goldenrod is specially adapted to coastal environments and often found in salt marshes, dunes, and other sandy habitats. It features bright yellow flower clusters that bloom in late summer and fall, attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. The plant’s lance-shaped leaves are dark green and remain evergreen in milder climates, adding year-round interest to the landscape. When planting Solidago sempervirens, space individual plants about 1 to 2 feet apart to allow for their growth and the development of their vibrant blooms.

Rouge Plant- (Rivina humilis) is a charming and unique flowering plant that adds a touch of color and whimsy to gardens and landscapes. Native to the southeastern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central and South America, this perennial shrub typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet  with a similar spread. Rivina humilis is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 8b to 11, thriving in subtropical and tropical climates.

Thriving in full sun to partial shade, Rouge Plant prefers well-draining soils and is often found in woodland edges, along trails, and in shaded gardens. It features small, inconspicuous flowers that give way to clusters of bright red berries, creating a striking contrast against the plant’s green foliage. The berries are an important food source for various birds and wildlife, contributing to the biodiversity of the area. The plant’s leaves are oval-shaped and emerge in shades of bronze or green, adding to its visual interest. When planting Rivina humilis, space individual plants about 1 to 2 feet apart to allow for proper growth and the development of their colorful berries.

Blue Curls- (Trichostema dichotomum) is a captivating and drought-tolerant native plant that adds a burst of color and texture to dry gardens and landscapes. Native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, this herbaceous perennial typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet with a spread of about 1 to 1.5 feet. Trichostema dichotomum is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10, thriving in arid and semi-arid climates.

Thriving in full sun to light shade, Blue Curls is adapted to dry and sandy soils, often found in desert habitats, rocky slopes, and grasslands. It features vibrant blue to lavender flowers that resemble delicate curls, creating an eye-catching display throughout the warmer months. The plant’s narrow leaves are aromatic when crushed, releasing a pleasant herbal fragrance. When planting Trichostema dichotomum, space individual plants about 1 to 1.5 feet apart to allow for proper growth and the development of their charming blooms.

Horsemint- (Monarda punctata), commonly known as Spotted Beebalm is a charming and drought-tolerant native plant that adds a splash of color and attracts pollinators to gardens and landscapes. Native to North America, this herbaceous perennial typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet with a spread of about 1 to 1.5 feet. Monarda punctata is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9, adapting well to a range of climates.

Thriving in full sun to light shade, Spotted Beebalm is specially adapted to dry and sandy soils, often found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It features unique and distinctive flower clusters that resemble a colorful explosion, with bracts ranging from pale pink to lavender and purple, surrounding tiny tubular flowers. The plant’s leaves are aromatic when crushed, releasing a pleasant herbal scent. When planting Monarda punctata, space individual plants about 1 to 1.5 feet apart to allow for proper growth and the development of their eye-catching blooms.

Narrowleaf Yellowtop-(Flaveria Linearis)is a fascinating and adaptable native plant that brings a touch of golden beauty to a variety of landscapes. Native to North and Central America, this perennial herb typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet with a similar spread. Flaveria Linearis is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11, thriving in a range of climates.

Thriving in full sun to light shade, Narrowleaf Yellowtops is remarkably adaptable to different soil types, from sandy to loamy. It often thrives in disturbed areas, along roadsides, and in open grasslands. The plant features clusters of bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom from spring to fall, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its narrow leaves give it a unique and delicate appearance, making it stand out in both formal and informal gardens. When planting Flaveria Linearis, space individual plants about 1 to 2 feet apart to allow for proper growth and the development of their vibrant blooms.

Adams’s Needle- (Yucca filamentosa) is a striking and adaptable native plant that adds a touch of architectural beauty to gardens and landscapes. Native to the southeastern United States, this perennial succulent typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet with a spread of about 2 to 4 feet. Yucca filamentosa is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 4 to 10, thriving in a wide range of climates.

Thriving in full sun to light shade, Adam’s Needle is remarkably tolerant of various soil types, including sandy, rocky, and well-draining soils. It features distinctive, sword-like leaves with sharp pointed tips and long threads along the leaf margins, giving it a unique and textural appearance. In late spring and early summer, Yucca filamentosa produces tall spikes of creamy white, bell-shaped flowers that stand above the foliage, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. When planting, space individual plants about 2 to 4 feet apart to allow for proper growth and the development of their striking architectural form.

Golden Creeper- (Ernodea littoralis)  is a delightful and salt-tolerant coastal plant that brings a touch of sunshine and charm to seaside landscapes. Native to coastal areas of the southeastern United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean, this low-growing perennial typically reaches a height of 1 to 2 feet with a spread of about 3 to 4 feet. Ernodea littoralis is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 8b to 11, thriving in the challenging conditions of coastal habitats.

Thriving in full sun and sandy soils, Golden Creeper is well-adapted to the harsh conditions of coastal environments, including exposure to salt spray and shifting sands. Its small, glossy, oval leaves are evergreen and create a dense mat that helps stabilize sandy soils, preventing erosion and creating a protective cover for the delicate dune systems. The plant produces lovely golden-yellow flowers that resemble miniature roses and bloom throughout the warmer months, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. When planting Golden Creeper, space individual plants about 3 to 4 feet apart to allow for proper growth and the development of their beautiful blooms.

Beach Croton- (Croton punctatus) is a distinctive and attractive tropical shrub that adds a touch of vibrant color to gardens and landscapes. This plant typically reaches a height of around 3 to 5 feet and has a similar spread, making it a moderately sized shrub. It is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 10 to 11, which indicates it thrives in warm, subtropical to tropical climates.

Beach Croton prefers well-draining soil and requires a consistent and ample water supply. It thrives in full to partial sunlight, ideally receiving at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. When planting multiple Croton punctatus specimens, it’s advisable to space them about 3 to 5 feet apart to allow for proper growth and airflow. This shrub is renowned for its striking foliage, featuring ovate leaves splashed with yellow, orange, and red hues, often accented by dark spots, hence its common name. Its variegated foliage adds a pop of color and visual interest to landscapes, making it a popular choice for ornamental purposes.

Oblongleaf Twinflower- (Dyschoriste oblongifolia)is a charming and versatile perennial plant that adds a touch of elegance to various garden settings. This plant typically reaches a height of about 1 to 2 feet  and has a similar spread, creating a compact yet visually appealing presence in the garden. It is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11, indicating its adaptability to a range of climates, from mild temperate to subtropical.

Oblongleaf Twinflower thrives in well-drained soils and prefers moderate watering, allowing the soil to slightly dry out between waterings. It flourishes in full to partial sunlight, making it suitable for a variety of garden locations. When planting multiple Dyschoriste oblongifolia specimens, it’s recommended to space them about 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for healthy growth and to showcase their delicate beauty. The plant is characterized by its slender, lance-shaped leaves that are a vibrant green and its lovely tubular flowers that can range in color from pale lavender to pink. Its dainty yet profuse blooms attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, making it a beneficial addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.

Beach Verbena-(Glandularia maritima)  is a delightful and resilient flowering plant that thrives along coastal landscapes, contributing to the beauty and ecological health of these environments. This plant typically grows to a height of around 6 to 12 inches with a spreading habit, creating lush mats of foliage and colorful blooms. It is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11, indicating its preference for warm and subtropical coastal climates.

Beach Verbena is well adapted to sandy and well-drained soils often found near shorelines. It flourishes in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. This hardy plant is known for its tolerance to salt spray and harsh coastal conditions, making it an excellent choice for stabilizing dunes and preventing erosion. When planting Glandularia maritima, it’s advisable to space the plants about 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for their spreading growth habit. The plant is characterized by its attractive, lobed leaves and clusters of small, fragrant flowers that can range in color from lavender to pink and white. These blooms provide nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to the overall health of coastal ecosystems.

Heliotroupe-(Euploca polyphylla) is a unique and resilient perennial plant that thrives in arid and semi-arid environments, adding a touch of texture and color to xeriscape gardens and landscapes. This plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet with a similar spread, forming compact and rounded mounds of foliage and flowers. It is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10, indicating its adaptability to a range of climates, from moderately temperate to desert-like conditions.

Heliotroupe is well adapted to sandy or rocky, well-drained soils and is drought-tolerant once established. It prefers full sun exposure, thriving in areas with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. When planting Heliotroupe, space the plants about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for their rounded growth habit. The plant is characterized by its small, gray-green leaves and clusters of showy, white or yellow flowers that bloom from spring through fall. Beyond its visual appeal, this plant’s deep root system aids in preventing soil erosion and contributes to soil stability, making it an excellent choice for erosion-prone areas and slopes.

Rosinflower-(Silphium asteriscus) -is a striking native perennial plant that adds a touch of wild beauty and ecological value to prairies, meadows, and naturalistic landscapes. This robust plant typically reaches a height of 3 to 6 feet with a spread of 2 to 4 feet, forming a commanding presence with its tall stems and attractive foliage. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9, indicating its adaptability to a broad range of climates, from temperate to subtropical.

Rosinflower prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy or clay soils. It flourishes in full sun to light shade, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, making it well-suited for open and sunny locations. When planting Silphium asteriscus, allow for ample spacing of about 2 to 3 feet between plants to accommodate its spreading growth habit. The plant is characterized by its large, lance-shaped leaves and its striking yellow, daisy-like flowers that appear in late summer to fall. These flowers are not only visually appealing but also provide nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to the health of local ecosystems.

Dune Sunflower– (Helianthus debilis) is a charming and adaptable perennial plant that brings a touch of sunshine to coastal landscapes and gardens. This plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet with a similar spread, forming dense clusters of vibrant foliage and cheerful flowers. It is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11, indicating its preference for warm and subtropical coastal climates.

Dune Sunflower thrives in sandy or well-drained soils and is remarkably tolerant of salty conditions and strong winds often found in coastal areas. It flourishes in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. When planting Helianthus debilis, space the plants about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for their spreading growth habit. The plant is characterized by its gray-green leaves and radiant, daisy-like yellow flowers that bloom continuously throughout the year, adding a burst of color to seaside landscapes. Beyond its visual appeal, this plant plays a vital role in stabilizing sandy soils and dunes, making it an excellent choice for erosion control and habitat restoration projects.

Pineland lantana – (Lantana depressa)is a versatile flowering plant that brings a burst of color and vitality to gardens and landscapes. This low-growing perennial typically reaches a height of about 1 to 2 feet with a spread of around 3 to 4 feet. Its compact size makes it a perfect choice for ground cover or border planting. Florida Lantana is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11, thriving in warm and subtropical climates.

Thriving in full sun and well-drained soils, Florida Lantana is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate periods of drought. Its vibrant yellow flowers attract pollinators like butterflies and bees. The clusters of blooms, often referred to as “umbels,” provide a delightful contrast against the lush green foliage. Pruning the plant periodically can help maintain its compact form and encourage continuous flowering. When planting, spacing individual plants about 2 to 3 feet apart allows for proper air circulation and room for growth. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Florida Lantana is considered a beneficial plant for its role in attracting pollinators, contributing to biodiversity, and adding vibrant color to outdoor spaces.

Silkgrass- (Pityopsis graminifolia) is a captivating and adaptable perennial plant that brings a touch of golden radiance and ecological value to various natural and cultivated landscapes. Typically reaching a height of 1 to 2 feet  with a similar spread, this plant forms graceful clumps of fine-textured foliage and boasts charming golden-yellow daisy-like flowers. Well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10, Silkgrass flourishes in warm and subtropical climates.

Thriving in well-drained soils, Pityopsis graminifolia displays exceptional adaptability, making it particularly suitable for sandy or coastal environments. It thrives in full sun exposure, necessitating at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. For optimal growth, when planting Silkgrass, maintain spacing of approximately 12 to 18 inches between plants to allow for its spreading growth habit. Characterized by its grass-like leaves that lend it one of its common names, the plant’s charming golden blooms grace the landscape from late summer to fall.

Black-Eyed Susan-(Rudbeckia hirta) is a vibrant and iconic wildflower that graces gardens and natural landscapes with its cheerful presence. This perennial plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet with a spread of 1 to 2 feet forming clusters of bright yellow or orange-yellow daisy-like flowers with distinctive dark centers. It is adaptable to a wide range of USDA hardiness zones, spanning from zones 3 to 9, making it suitable for various temperate and subtropical climates.

Black-Eyed Susan is remarkably adaptable to different growing conditions and soil types, thriving in well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. It’s a hardy plant that can withstand periods of drought once established. When planting Rudbeckia hirta, spacing should be about 12 to 18 inches ) apart to allow ample room for its spreading growth habit. The plant is known for its stunning flowers, which not only add a burst of color to the landscape but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to the health of local ecosystems. Beyond its ornamental value, Black-Eyed Susan has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine for its potential immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.

Stokes Aster- (Stokesia laevis) is an enchanting and versatile perennial plant that graces gardens with its captivating blooms and enduring beauty. This plant typically reaches a height of 1 to 3 feet (0.3 to 0.9 meters) with a spread of about 1 to 2 feet forming compact clumps of lush foliage and striking aster-like flowers. It is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9, indicating its adaptability to a broad range of climates, from temperate to subtropical.

Stokes Aster thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to light shade, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal flowering. When planting Stokesia laevis, space the plants about 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for their spreading growth habit. The plant is characterized by its lance-shaped leaves and large, daisy-like flowers that can come in various shades, including shades of blue, lavender, and white. These flowers provide a stunning display of color throughout the growing season, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Stokes Aster is known for its deer resistance and is also a valuable addition to cutting gardens, offering long-lasting and attractive blooms suitable for floral arrangements.

Frogfruit- (Phyla nodiflora) is a charming and tenacious ground cover plant that brings a touch of native beauty and ecological value to landscapes. This plant typically grows to a height of 3 to 6 inches with a spreading habit, forming dense mats of foliage adorned with small, delicate white to pale pink flowers. It is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 7 to 11, making it adaptable to a range of climates, from temperate to subtropical.

Frogfruit thrives in a variety of growing conditions and soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It prefers full sun to light shade, making it a versatile choice for various garden locations. When planting Phyla nodiflora, space the plants about 6 to 12 inches apart to allow for their spreading growth habit. The plant is characterized by its small, rounded leaves and its dainty flowers that attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Beyond its visual appeal, Frogfruit is known for its role in providing food and habitat for important pollinators and serving as a valuable ground cover to help prevent soil erosion. It is also a host plant for the White Peacock butterfly, making it a significant component of butterfly gardens.

Sunshine Mimosa- (Mimosa strigillosa), commonly known as Sensitive Plant, is a fascinating and diminutive perennial herb that adds a touch of wonder and interactivity to gardens and landscapes. This plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet with a similar spread, forming low mounds of delicate foliage and charming pink puffball-like flowers. It is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10, indicating its adaptability to a range of climates, from temperate to subtropical.

Powderpuff thrives in well-drained soils and is remarkably sensitive to touch, as its name suggests. It prefers full sun to light shade, with at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. When planting Mimosa strigillosa, allow for spacing of about 12 to 18 inches between plants to accommodate its spreading growth habit. The plant is characterized by its finely divided, fern-like leaves that fold up in response to touch or vibrations, making it a captivating plant to observe. Its pink, spherical flower heads add a burst of color and whimsy to the garden, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Powderpuff is not only visually appealing but also contributes to soil health by fixing nitrogen, enriching the soil for surrounding plants.