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 […]
Lazy 8 Plants of Sarasota
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 […]
Tickseed (Coreopsis)
Big Flats in Myakka River State Park in May is the best and most memorable local display of Coreopsis. Introduction Florida’s landscape is adorned with a myriad of vibrant plants, each contributing to the state’s rich biodiversity. Among these botanical treasures, the coreopsis stands out as a symbol of Florida’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. […]
Wild Coffee (Psychotria)
This native shrub, with its glossy leaves and bright red berries, is a hidden gem in the understory of Florida’s forests and hammocks. It’s a plant that often goes unnoticed by casual observers, yet it plays a crucial role in our local ecosystems and offers a touch of tropical beauty that is distinctly Floridian. An […]
Spanish Moss (Tillandsia usneoides)
This enigmatic plant, draped gracefully over the branches of ancient oaks and cypresses, creates a picturesque scene that has come to symbolize the timeless beauty and mystery of the American South. Despite its ubiquitous presence, Spanish Moss remains a fascinating subject of study, steeped in both natural wonder and cultural lore. The Nature of Spanish […]
Resurrection Fern (Pleopeltis polypodioides)
This remarkable fern, known for its ability to seemingly come back to life after appearing desiccated and dead, is a true marvel of the plant world. Its unique characteristics and survival strategies make it an enchanting subject of study, offering insights into the resilience and adaptability of nature. A Miraculous Transformation The Resurrection Fern gets […]
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)
This resilient plant, with its fan-shaped fronds and spiky stems, is a quintessential part of Florida’s landscapes, from the coastal dunes to the dense pine flatwoods. Despite its often rugged appearance, the Saw Palmetto is a plant of remarkable beauty, ecological significance, and historical importance. A Hardy Survivor The Saw Palmetto is a true survivor […]
Slash Pine (Pinus elliottii)
This stately tree, with its tall, straight trunk and long, slender needles, is a defining feature of the Florida landscape. From the coastal plains to the sandy uplands, the Slash Pine stands as a testament to the resilience and beauty of the natural world. Its ecological importance, historical significance, and practical uses make it a […]