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Florida Native Plants vs. Florida Friendly Plants: A Comparison

Florida’s unique climate and ecosystem provide a rich tapestry of flora that is both beautiful and ecologically significant. When it comes to landscaping in the Sunshine State, homeowners and gardeners often face a choice between using Florida native plants and Florida Friendly plants. Understanding the differences between these two categories can help you make informed decisions that benefit both your garden and the environment.

What Are Florida Native Plants?

Florida native plants are species that have naturally occurred in the region for hundreds or thousands of years. These plants have evolved to thrive in Florida’s specific climate, soil, and ecosystem, making them well-suited to the local environment. The Florida Native Plant Society has put together an excellent educational site for learning more about our amazing Florida native plants.Examples of Florida native plants include:

• Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens): A hardy palm with fan-shaped leaves, commonly found in Florida’s forests and scrublands.
• Coontie (Zamia integrifolia): A low-growing, evergreen cycad that provides habitat for the rare Atala butterfly.
• Firebush (Hamelia patens): A vibrant, flowering shrub that attracts hummingbirds and butterflies with its red-orange blooms.

Benefits of Florida Native Plants

1. Ecological Compatibility: Native plants are perfectly adapted to local conditions, requiring less water, fertilizers, and pesticides compared to non-native species.
2. Wildlife Support: These plants provide essential food and habitat for local wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and pollinators.
3. Low Maintenance: Once established, native plants generally require less maintenance, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice for gardeners.

What Are Florida Friendly Plants?

Florida Friendly plants, on the other hand, include both native and non-native species that are well-suited to Florida’s environment but are not necessarily native. The Florida Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) program, developed by the University of Florida, promotes plants that require minimal water, fertilizers, and pesticides, and are non-invasive. Examples of Florida Friendly plants include:

• Hibiscus (Hibiscus spp.): A moderately drought tolerant shrub with large, attractive flowers.
• Society Garlic (Tulbaghia violacea): A fragrant, perennial herb with purple flowers that repel pests.
• Pentas (Pentas lanceolata): A vibrant, flowering plant that blooms year-round and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.

Benefits of Florida Friendly Plants

1. Adaptability: These plants are selected for their ability to thrive in Florida’s climate, even if they are not native to the region.
2. Sustainability: Florida Friendly plants contribute to sustainable gardening practices by reducing the need for water, fertilizers, and pesticides.
3. Diversity: Including both native and non-native species, Florida Friendly plants offer a broader range of choices for gardeners looking to create attractive and environmentally responsible landscapes.

Key Differences

1. Origin: The primary difference is that Florida native plants are indigenous to the region, while Florida Friendly plants can include non-native species.
2. Ecological Impact: Native plants play a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity, while Florida Friendly plants are chosen for their low environmental impact and non-invasive nature.
3. Maintenance: Both types of plants are generally low maintenance, but native plants might be slightly easier to care for due to their long-term adaptation to local conditions.

Choosing the Right Plants for Your Garden

When deciding between Florida native and Florida Friendly plants, consider your specific gardening goals and the conditions of your landscape. For those looking to create a natural, wildlife-friendly garden with minimal maintenance, native plants are an excellent choice. If you seek a broader selection of aesthetically pleasing plants that still adhere to sustainable practices, incorporating some Florida Friendly plants can provide greater flexibility and variety. At Wilcox we opt for an 80% native and 20% Florida Friendly landscape with a goal to always reduce the amount of turf in the landscape (turf is NOT friendly).

Conclusion

Both Florida native and Florida Friendly plants offer unique advantages for gardeners in the state. By understanding the characteristics and benefits of each, you can create a beautiful, sustainable garden that enhances Florida’s natural beauty and supports its ecological health. Happy gardening!