Tithonia diversifolia is a perennial in South Florida which can attain a height of 6-12 feet. This time of year, you cannot miss its large yellow flowers that resemble a sunflower. This plant would be excellent in the back corner of a butterfly garden as it attracts all of South Florida’s butterflies and honeybees. Richard…
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Stigmaphyllon littorale has two common names. One for the seed pods which resemble chartreuse colored butterflies before turning brown, and one for the flowers which resemble tiny orchids. The vine can reach 20′ on a fence or trellis. It blooms twice a year, spring and fall, in South Florida. Butterflies and bees are attracted to…
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Pithecellobium keyense is a Florida native occurring as far north as southern Martin County and going south through Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe counties. It is a small multi-trunk tree reaching 12-15′. The flowers are small pinkish white puff balls that are somewhat fragrant attracting bees and butterflies. The seed pods are green pealike…
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Gaura lindheimeri ‘Karalee Petite Pink’ is a very interesting low growing perennial plant for full sun. This perennial is an excellent border plant with colorful foliage consisting of long strap-like leaves in a tight rosette. The leaves can be green, green and burgandy, or deep burgundy depending on light levels. The flower spikes are 10-14″…
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Two closely related Florida native plants, one a small tree, the other a small shrub. Bourreria succulenta, is a small tree, 15-20′ tall with a narrow weeping crown only occurs in Florida in Lee County, Miami-Dade County, and the Florida Keys. Bourreria cassinifolia, is a small shrub, 5-7′ tall and almost as wide only occurring…
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