The Lazy Naturalist

The Nature of Sarasota, Florida, & Beyond

Plants of Florida

    Star Jasmine (Jasminum multiflorum)

    Introduction Star Jasmine (Jasminum multiflorum), known for its star-shaped flowers and intoxicating fragrance, holds a special place in gardens and hearts worldwide. This evergreen vine, native to Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent, has become a beloved ornamental plant in many parts of the world, including Florida. Its delicate beauty and heady scent have made […]

    Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

    Common in Florida and all up and down the US east coast, the red maple (or swamp maple) will remind northern transplants of their precious fall colors. If you miss maple trees while you’re in Florida — here’s your answer! Florida’s Red Maple: A Naturalist’s Delight Introduction Greetings, nature enthusiasts! Today, we embark on an […]

    Southern Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera)

    This plant is very common in the dry prairie, and its crushed leaves have a distinct pleasant aroma. As a naturalist, the privilege of wandering through Florida’s diverse landscapes reveals endless wonders, each with its own story to tell. Among the many remarkable plants that grace this region, the Southern Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera) stands […]

    Dogfennel (Eupatorium capillifolium)

    Very common around Sarasota, particularly in disturbed areas like roadsides and trails. Take a small piece — crush and sniff — for a unique aroma, somewhat like dill.

    Goldenrod (Solidago)

    In the right season, you’ll see goldenrod crying out yellow all over the place, and it certainly helps that there are well over a hundred species around. I see goldenrod in Florida and in New England, and everywhere between, I can’t pretend to say which species I’m looking at it any given time — but […]

    Rough Horsetail (Equisetum hyemale)

    These look like tiny bamboo tree trunks, and I’ve seen them infrequently, but up and down the US east coast, as well as in Florida. Like ferns, they reproduce with spores instead of seeds.

    Ballmoss (Tillandsia recurvata)

    Despite its name, Ballmoss is neither a true moss nor a parasite, but an epiphyte—a plant that grows on other plants for physical support without drawing nutrients from its host. Found throughout the southeastern United States and thriving in Florida’s diverse climates, Ballmoss is a fascinating example of nature’s adaptability and complexity. A Curious Appearance […]

    Pine Lily (Lilium catesbaei)

    September & October are the blooming months for the beautiful native Pine Lily, which can be seen in the dry prairie and other damp areas around Sarasota. This flower is a perennial secret kept from snowbirds because it would be very unusual to see it after the month of October. Most recently, I have seen […]