The Lazy Naturalist

The Re-Enchantment of Nature - Sarasota, Florida

Plants of Florida

    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 […]

    Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolia)

    This invasive plant, with its clusters of red berries and glossy green leaves, is as captivating as it is controversial. Despite its picturesque appearance, the Brazilian Pepper is a formidable adversary to Florida’s native flora. Let’s embark on a journey to understand the story of this botanical interloper and its profound impact on the Sunshine […]

    Air Potato (Dioscorea bulbifera)

    As the sun rises over the verdant landscape of Florida, a quiet battle is waging between native flora and a relentless invader. Climbing skyward with deceptive beauty, the Air Potato (Dioscorea bulbifera) has become a notorious figure in the state’s ecological story. This tenacious vine, adorned with heart-shaped leaves and aerial tubers, has woven itself […]

    Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes)

    Gliding across the serene waters of Florida’s lakes and rivers, you might be captivated by the sight of a vast, floating carpet of lush, green leaves adorned with delicate, violet blossoms. At first glance, the Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) appears to be a beautiful and benign addition to the aquatic landscape. However, beneath this floral […]

    Cogon Grass (Imperata cylindrica)

    This aggressive invader, with its deceptive beauty and relentless growth, has become a significant challenge for land managers and conservationists alike. Join me as we delve into the tale of Cogon Grass, exploring its origins, impact, and the ongoing efforts to curb its spread in the Sunshine State. An Unwanted Arrival Cogon Grass, native to […]

    Caesar Weed (Urena lobata)

    This plant, known as Caesar Weed (Urena lobata), is more than just a pretty face. Despite its appealing appearance, Caesar Weed is a formidable invasive species that has taken root across Florida, posing a threat to native flora and fauna. Join me on an exploration of this tenacious plant, its origins, ecological impact, and the […]

    Cabbage or Sabal Palm (Sabal palmetto)

    This sturdy and versatile tree, with its distinctive fan-shaped fronds, is an iconic fixture in the landscape of the Sunshine State. From the sprawling Everglades to the bustling urban centers, the Cabbage Palm stands as a testament to the resilience and beauty of Florida’s native flora. A Versatile Icon The Cabbage Palm, also called the […]

    Southern Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)

    This mighty tree, with its sprawling limbs and dense, evergreen foliage, is an emblem of the Southern landscape, standing as a guardian of history, culture, and biodiversity. From the coastal plains to the hammocks of Florida’s interior, the Southern Live Oak is a testament to nature’s resilience and beauty. A Majestic Presence The Southern Live […]

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