Why you should choose Native Red Cedar Over Norfolk Island Pines for a Florida-Friendly Holiday Season  As the holiday season approaches, many households eagerly purchase festive plants. One commonly purchased plant for the season is the ‘Norfolk Island Pine’. A popular choice due to its widespread availability. Surprisingly, the majority of trees sold as Norfolk [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_25247" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-25247" style="width: 969px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/12/Untitled-Facebook-Post-1.png"><img decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" class=" wp-image-25247" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/12/Untitled-Facebook-Post-1.png" alt="'Norfolk Island' Pines being sold locally compared to tastefully decorated Red Cedars at the 2023 Green Living Expo" width="969" height="546" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-25247" class="wp-caption-text">&#8216;Norfolk Island&#8217; Pines being sold locally compared to tastefully decorated Red Cedars at the <a href="https://www.scienceandenvironment.org/project/2023summit-expo/">2023 Green Living Expo</a></figcaption></figure>
<h2>Why you should choose Native Red Cedar Over Norfolk Island Pines for a Florida-Friendly Holiday Season </h2>
As the holiday season approaches, many households eagerly purchase festive plants. One commonly purchased plant for the season is the ‘Norfolk Island Pine’. A popular choice due to its widespread availability. Surprisingly, the majority of trees sold as Norfolk Island Pines are, in fact, Cook Island Pines, both belonging to the Araucaria genus. These two species share a similar appearance when young, which leads to incorrect labeling. In this blog post we will just call these common nonnative pines collectively as Araucaria pines. We&#8217;ll explore the drawbacks of Araucaria Pines and compare them to the native <a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/red-cedar.html">Red Cedars (</a>Juniperus virginiana), a far superior tree to plant in your landscape after the holidays are over. Also at the time of this blog post, Red Cedars from our local members of the <a href="https://www.fann.org/professionals">Florida Association of Native Nurseries</a>, were roughly half the cost ($7.50 versus $12.99) of &#8216;Norfolk Island Pines&#8217; at our big box stores for a similar sized plant! So we hope you support local small businesses, decorate with natives, and have <a href="https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/">Florida-Friendly Landscaping&#x2122;</a> in mind this holiday season after reading this blog! 
<figure id="attachment_25245" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-25245" style="width: 247px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/12/Untitled-design-31.png"><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-25245" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/12/Untitled-design-31.png" alt="A Cook Island Pine in a Florida Landscape. " width="247" height="494" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-25245" class="wp-caption-text">A Cook Island Pine in a Florida Landscape.</figcaption></figure>
<h2>The Downside of Araucaria Pines </h2>
<h3>Size Concerns</h3>
One major drawback of Araucaria Pines is their considerable size. These trees quickly grow to towering heights, posing challenges for small properties. At mature size being over 80ft tall by 20 ft wide. Additionally, their height makes them potential lightning rods during storms, posing safety risks to both property and residents. Also, if you decide to remove a Araucaria Pine in the future, be prepared for high expenses. The size and complexity of these trees make removal a costly endeavor, involving specialized equipment and expertise. In contrast, the smaller Eastern Red Cedars are generally more manageable, easing the burden on your wallet. 
<h3>Charlie Brown’s Christmas Tree<span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}"> </h3>
The Araucaria Pines are sometimes regarded as the &#8220;Charlie Brown&#8221; Christmas tree. Its sparse branches are reminiscent of the iconic scrawny tree from the Peanuts comic strip. The Eastern Red Cedar is a more visually appealing option due to its dense growth habit.  
<h3>Lack of Wildlife Benefits </h3>
Araucaria Pines are non-native trees and they do not provide the same ecological benefits as native species. From what I have seen Cook Island Pines only provide shelter for a few select species, mostly birds of prey. Native Slash and Longleaf Pines are also superior for this wildlife niche. 
<figure id="attachment_25251" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-25251" style="width: 307px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/12/Untitled-design-32.png"><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-25251" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/12/Untitled-design-32.png" alt="Cedar waxwing, a beautiful migratory bird that relies on the tree so much it was named after it!" width="307" height="307" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-25251" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/cedar-waxwing">Cedar waxwing</a>, a beautiful migratory bird that relies on the tree so much it was named after it!</figcaption></figure>
<h2>Eastern Red Cedar Advantages </h2>
<h3>Aesthetics: Shape, Size, Fullness, and Color </h3>
Eastern Red Cedars boast full, pyramidal shape that lends itself well to holiday decorations. Some cultivars can be deep green while others have been cultivated for their <a href="https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/database/documents/pdf/tree_fact_sheets/junvire.pdf">silver</a> foliage as a trait. The Eastern Red Cedar&#8217;s denser growth also provides a more visually appealing backdrop for your festive decorations. Unlike the towering Araucaria Pine, Eastern Red Cedars also offer a more manageable size for both indoor and outdoor use. Usually being 40 ft tall by 20ft wide at mature size in Florida. If space is a concern, consider the &#8216;<a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST334">Skyrocket</a>&#8216; or &#8216;Brodie&#8217; cultivar, known for its compact columnar shape. These cultivars maintain the classic beauty of the native Red Cedar while fitting comfortably into smaller horizontal spaces. Expect 8-10 ft in width with these columnar cultivars of Red Cedar. 
<h3>Ecological Benefits </h3>
Choosing a native tree like the Eastern Red Cedar brings ecological advantages. The tree&#8217;s foliage and numerous small berries attract wildlife, with the Cedar Waxwing being a notable migratory bird visitor. The dense, evergreen foliage also is a favorite of many diverse species of birds for making nests in. Supporting local wildlife in your landscape is a key principle of <a href="https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/about-ffl/9-principles/principle-5-attract-wildlife/">Florida-Friendly Landscaping&#x2122;</a>, and contributes to the overall health and biodiversity of your local ecosystem.
<h2>Conclusion </h2>
When selecting a tree for holiday decoration that you plan to incorporate into your landscape afterward, Eastern Red Cedars stand out as the superior choice. From their aesthetic appeal to the ecological benefits they bring, these native trees offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option compared to Araucaria Pines. Make this holiday season not only beautiful but also better for our environment by choosing the timeless elegance of the native Eastern Red Cedar. 
<h2>Resources:</h2>
<ul id="attachment_24953" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 346px">
<li>UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Red Cedar <a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/red-cedar.html">https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/red-cedar.html</a></li>
<li>UF/IFAS Red Cedar EDIS Document: <a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST331">https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST331</a></li>
<li>UF/IFAS &#8216;Skyrocket&#8217; Red Cedar EDIS Document: <a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST334">https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST334</a></li>
<li>Florida Association of Native Nurseries to find  Red Cedars for Sale: <a href="https://www.fann.org/professionals">https://www.fann.org/professionals</a></li>
<li>Florida Native Plant Society page on Red Cedar:  <a href="https://www.fnps.org/plant/juniperus-virginiana">https://www.fnps.org/plant/juniperus-virginiana</a></li>
</ul>
<div style="clear: both;border: 0.5px solid #000000;background-color: #eeeeee;padding: 0.25em 5px;margin-bottom: 1.5em">Declaration of Generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the writing process 
During the preparation of this work, the author used ChatGPT to help build the blog post. After using this tool/service, the author reviewed and edited the content, and takes full responsibility for the content of the publication.</div>

‘Norfolk Island’ Pines being sold locally compared to tastefully decorated Red Cedars at the 2023 Green Living Expo
Why you should choose Native Red Cedar Over Norfolk Island Pines for a Florida-Friendly Holiday Season 
As the holiday season approaches, many households eagerly purchase festive plants. One commonly purchased plant for the season is the ‘Norfolk Island Pine’. A popular choice due to its widespread availability. Surprisingly, the majority of trees sold as Norfolk Island Pines are, in fact, Cook Island Pines, both belonging to the Araucaria genus. These two species share a similar appearance when young, which leads to incorrect labeling. In this blog post we will just call these common nonnative pines collectively as Araucaria pines. We’ll explore the drawbacks of Araucaria Pines and compare them to the native Red Cedars (Juniperus virginiana), a far superior tree to plant in your landscape after the holidays are over. Also at the time of this blog post, Red Cedars from our local members of the Florida Association of Native Nurseries, were roughly half the cost ($7.50 versus $12.99) of ‘Norfolk Island Pines’ at our big box stores for a similar sized plant! So we hope you support local small businesses, decorate with natives, and have Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ in mind this holiday season after reading this blog! 
A Cook Island Pine in a Florida Landscape.
The Downside of Araucaria Pines 
Size Concerns
One major drawback of Araucaria Pines is their considerable size. These trees quickly grow to towering heights, posing challenges for small properties. At mature size being over 80ft tall by 20 ft wide. Additionally, their height makes them potential lightning rods during storms, posing safety risks to both property and residents. Also, if you decide to remove a Araucaria Pine in the future, be prepared for high expenses. The size and complexity of these trees make removal a costly endeavor, involving specialized equipment and expertise. In contrast, the smaller Eastern Red Cedars are generally more manageable, easing the burden on your wallet. 
Charlie Brown’s Christmas Tree 
The Araucaria Pines are sometimes regarded as the “Charlie Brown” Christmas tree. Its sparse branches are reminiscent of the iconic scrawny tree from the Peanuts comic strip. The Eastern Red Cedar is a more visually appealing option due to its dense growth habit.  
Lack of Wildlife Benefits 
Araucaria Pines are non-native trees and they do not provide the same ecological benefits as native species. From what I have seen Cook Island Pines only provide shelter for a few select species, mostly birds of prey. Native Slash and Longleaf Pines are also superior for this wildlife niche. 
Cedar waxwing, a beautiful migratory bird that relies on the tree so much it was named after it!
Eastern Red Cedar Advantages 
Aesthetics: Shape, Size, Fullness, and Color 
Eastern Red Cedars boast full, pyramidal shape that lends itself well to holiday decorations. Some cultivars can be deep green while others have been cultivated for their silver foliage as a trait. The Eastern Red Cedar’s denser growth also provides a more visually appealing backdrop for your festive decorations. Unlike the towering Araucaria Pine, Eastern Red Cedars also offer a more manageable size for both indoor and outdoor use. Usually being 40 ft tall by 20ft wide at mature size in Florida. If space is a concern, consider the ‘Skyrocket‘ or ‘Brodie’ cultivar, known for its compact columnar shape. These cultivars maintain the classic beauty of the native Red Cedar while fitting comfortably into smaller horizontal spaces. Expect 8-10 ft in width with these columnar cultivars of Red Cedar. 
Ecological Benefits 
Choosing a native tree like the Eastern Red Cedar brings ecological advantages. The tree’s foliage and numerous small berries attract wildlife, with the Cedar Waxwing being a notable migratory bird visitor. The dense, evergreen foliage also is a favorite of many diverse species of birds for making nests in. Supporting local wildlife in your landscape is a key principle of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™, and contributes to the overall health and biodiversity of your local ecosystem.
Conclusion 
When selecting a tree for holiday decoration that you plan to incorporate into your landscape afterward, Eastern Red Cedars stand out as the superior choice. From their aesthetic appeal to the ecological benefits they bring, these native trees offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option compared to Araucaria Pines. Make this holiday season not only beautiful but also better for our environment by choosing the timeless elegance of the native Eastern Red Cedar. 
Resources:
UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Red Cedar https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/red-cedar.html
UF/IFAS Red Cedar EDIS Document: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST331
UF/IFAS ‘Skyrocket’ Red Cedar EDIS Document: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST334
Florida Association of Native Nurseries to find  Red Cedars for Sale: https://www.fann.org/professionals
Florida Native Plant Society page on Red Cedar:  https://www.fnps.org/plant/juniperus-virginiana
Declaration of Generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the writing process
During the preparation of this work, the author used ChatGPT to help build the blog post. After using this tool/service, the author reviewed and edited the content, and takes full responsibility for the content of the publication.

Why you should choose Native Red Cedar Over Norfolk Island Pines for a Florida-Friendly Holiday Season  As the holiday season approaches, many households eagerly purchase festive plants. One commonly purchased plant for the season is the ‘Norfolk Island Pine’. A popular choice due to its widespread availability. Surprisingly, the majority of trees sold as Norfolk […]

Plants at Their Peak: Red Cedar, the Superior Holiday Evergreen!

As the holiday season approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate the vibrant colors and festive decorations that accompany this joyous time of year. While traditional holiday flowers like mums have long been a popular choice for seasonal décor, there&#8217;s a Florida-Friendly alternative that not only adds a burst of color to your celebrations but also [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_24953" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-24953" style="width: 387px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/11/Untitled-design-28.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-24953" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/11/Untitled-design-28.png" alt="A spent Mums I spotted. It didn't even last to Thanksgiving!" width="387" height="387" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-24953" class="wp-caption-text">A tired mum I spotted. It didn&#8217;t even last to Thanksgiving!</figcaption></figure>
As the holiday season approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate the vibrant colors and festive decorations that accompany this joyous time of year. While traditional holiday flowers like mums have long been a popular choice for seasonal décor, there&#8217;s a <a href="https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/">Florida-Friendly</a> alternative that not only adds a burst of color to your celebrations but also benefits the local environment. Enter the Florida native asters – a stunning and native choice for your holiday festivities.
<figure id="attachment_24951" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-24951" style="width: 301px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/11/Untitled-design-26.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-24951" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/11/Untitled-design-26.png" alt="Climbing Aster in it's favorite growing spot in nature. Along the waterfront." width="301" height="301" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-24951" class="wp-caption-text">Climbing Aster in it&#8217;s favorite growing spot in nature. Along a freshwater creek.</figcaption></figure>
<h3>Why Florida Native Asters?</h3>
Florida native asters (Asteraceae) are not only visually appealing with their daisy-like blooms, but they also offer numerous advantages over traditional holiday plants like mums. Mums grow best in zones 4 through 9, and in Sarasota County it is now predominantly zone 10. So, they are not the <a href="https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/about-ffl/9-principles/principle-1-right-plant-/">Right Plant for the Right Place</a>. Native asters are well-adapted to Florida&#8217;s climate, making them more resilient and easier to maintain. By choosing Florida native asters, you&#8217;re not just decorating for the holidays – you&#8217;re making a Florida-Friendly choice that can make a lasting impact in your garden.
<h3>Key Species of Native Asters</h3>
<figure id="attachment_24947" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-24947" style="width: 438px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/11/Untitled-design-24.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-24947" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/11/Untitled-design-24.png" alt="The delicate Rice Button Aster flowers at Twin Lakes Park." width="438" height="438" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-24947" class="wp-caption-text">The delicate Rice Button Aster flowers at Twin Lakes Park.</figcaption></figure>
<a href="https://www.fnps.org/plant/symphyotrichum-carolinianum">Climbing Aster Symphyotrichum carolinianum</a>: A clambering mass, it is often found along waterways in full bloom this time of year. It is a great plant for a fence, which is where it grows at the UF/IFAS Twin Lakes Park Demonstration Garden. It is blanketed with pale lavender flowers.
<a href="https://www.fnps.org/plant/symphyotrichum-dumosum">Rice Button Aster Symphyotrichum dumosum</a>: With a compact and bushy growth habit, the Rice Button Aster typically reaches a height of one to three feet. It produces an abundance of small, daisy-like flowers with white to pale blue petals, creating a delicate and charming display. We have it displayed in our Native Plant Corridor.
<a href="https://www.fnps.org/plant/stokesia-laevis">Stokes&#8217; Aster Stokesia laevis</a>: Characterized by striking lavender-blue, daisy-like flowers. This plant typically thrives in well-drained soils, making it well-suited for Florida&#8217;s sandy landscapes. With its clumping growth habit and lance-shaped leaves it grows best in dappled shade in our area. For the greatest visual appeal, place Stokes’ Aster in groupings.
There are a variety of native asters throughout Florida. To find what thrives in your region, consider visiting <a href="https://www.fann.org/professionals">a local nursery specializing in native plants</a>.
<h3>Extended Blooms:</h3>
One of the key advantages of Florida native asters is their extended blooming period. While mums may provide a burst of color for a few weeks, native asters can bloom late summer until first frost, ensuring your holiday display remains vibrant for an extended period. This prolonged blooming season means you can enjoy the festive atmosphere for longer, making Florida native asters a great investment for your seasonal decorations.
<figure id="attachment_24949" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-24949" style="width: 451px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/11/Untitled-design-25.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-24949" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/11/Untitled-design-25.png" alt="Native pollinators on Climbing Aster at Twin Lakes Park. In this case a Metallic Green Sweat Bee and White Peacock Butterfly." width="451" height="451" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-24949" class="wp-caption-text">Precious pollinators, a Metallic Green Sweat Bee and White Peacock Butterfly, on Climbing Aster at Twin Lakes Park. .</figcaption></figure>
<h3>After the Holidays:</h3>
Once the holiday season is over, your Florida native asters don&#8217;t have to be discarded like traditional holiday plants. Instead, these hardy perennials can be planted in your garden, providing long-lasting beauty and ecological benefits. As native plants, asters play a crucial role in supporting local wildlife, especially pollinators like bees and butterflies.
<h3>Prime Pollinator Plant:</h3>
Florida native asters attract a variety of pollinators, making them an essential addition to any garden aiming to support local wildlife. Bees and butterflies are particularly fond of their blooms, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden. By cultivating native plants, you contribute to the conservation of local ecosystems and help sustain essential pollinator populations.
<h3>Conclusion:</h3>
This holiday season, consider breaking away from the traditional and embracing the beauty and sustainability of Florida native asters. These native plants not only provide a festive and eco-friendly alternative to mums but also contribute to the well-being of local ecosystems. After the holidays, plant them in your garden to support pollinators and enjoy their blooms year after year. It&#8217;s a sustainable choice that keeps on giving. With Florida native asters, you&#8217;re not just decorating for the season – you&#8217;re making a lasting impact on your local ecology.
<figure id="attachment_24955" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-24955" style="width: 526px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/11/Untitled-design-27.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-24955" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2023/11/Untitled-design-27.png" alt="Blooms of Climbing Aster" width="526" height="526" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-24955" class="wp-caption-text">Will you bring home some Asters this holiday season?</figcaption></figure>
<h2>Resources:</h2>
<ul id="attachment_24953" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 346px">
<li>UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Florida Aster&#8217;s <a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/asters.html">https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/asters.html </a></li>
<li>UF/IFAS Aster EDIS Document: <a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP056">https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP056</a></li>
<li>Florida Native Plant Society Database: <a href="https://www.fnps.org/plants?searchtype=species">https://www.fnps.org/plants?searchtype=species </a></li>
</ul>
<div style="clear: both;border: 0.5px solid #000000;background-color: #eeeeee;padding: 0.25em 5px;margin-bottom: 1.5em">Declaration of Generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the writing process 
During the preparation of this work, the author used ChatGPT to help build the blog post. After using this tool/service, the author reviewed and edited the content, and takes full responsibility for the content of the publication.</div>

A tired mum I spotted. It didn’t even last to Thanksgiving!
As the holiday season approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate the vibrant colors and festive decorations that accompany this joyous time of year. While traditional holiday flowers like mums have long been a popular choice for seasonal décor, there’s a Florida-Friendly alternative that not only adds a burst of color to your celebrations but also benefits the local environment. Enter the Florida native asters – a stunning and native choice for your holiday festivities.
Climbing Aster in it’s favorite growing spot in nature. Along a freshwater creek.
Why Florida Native Asters?
Florida native asters (Asteraceae) are not only visually appealing with their daisy-like blooms, but they also offer numerous advantages over traditional holiday plants like mums. Mums grow best in zones 4 through 9, and in Sarasota County it is now predominantly zone 10. So, they are not the Right Plant for the Right Place. Native asters are well-adapted to Florida’s climate, making them more resilient and easier to maintain. By choosing Florida native asters, you’re not just decorating for the holidays – you’re making a Florida-Friendly choice that can make a lasting impact in your garden.
Key Species of Native Asters
The delicate Rice Button Aster flowers at Twin Lakes Park.
Climbing Aster Symphyotrichum carolinianum: A clambering mass, it is often found along waterways in full bloom this time of year. It is a great plant for a fence, which is where it grows at the UF/IFAS Twin Lakes Park Demonstration Garden. It is blanketed with pale lavender flowers.
Rice Button Aster Symphyotrichum dumosum: With a compact and bushy growth habit, the Rice Button Aster typically reaches a height of one to three feet. It produces an abundance of small, daisy-like flowers with white to pale blue petals, creating a delicate and charming display. We have it displayed in our Native Plant Corridor.
Stokes’ Aster Stokesia laevis: Characterized by striking lavender-blue, daisy-like flowers. This plant typically thrives in well-drained soils, making it well-suited for Florida’s sandy landscapes. With its clumping growth habit and lance-shaped leaves it grows best in dappled shade in our area. For the greatest visual appeal, place Stokes’ Aster in groupings.
There are a variety of native asters throughout Florida. To find what thrives in your region, consider visiting a local nursery specializing in native plants.
Extended Blooms:
One of the key advantages of Florida native asters is their extended blooming period. While mums may provide a burst of color for a few weeks, native asters can bloom late summer until first frost, ensuring your holiday display remains vibrant for an extended period. This prolonged blooming season means you can enjoy the festive atmosphere for longer, making Florida native asters a great investment for your seasonal decorations.
Precious pollinators, a Metallic Green Sweat Bee and White Peacock Butterfly, on Climbing Aster at Twin Lakes Park. .
After the Holidays:
Once the holiday season is over, your Florida native asters don’t have to be discarded like traditional holiday plants. Instead, these hardy perennials can be planted in your garden, providing long-lasting beauty and ecological benefits. As native plants, asters play a crucial role in supporting local wildlife, especially pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Prime Pollinator Plant:
Florida native asters attract a variety of pollinators, making them an essential addition to any garden aiming to support local wildlife. Bees and butterflies are particularly fond of their blooms, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden. By cultivating native plants, you contribute to the conservation of local ecosystems and help sustain essential pollinator populations.
Conclusion:
This holiday season, consider breaking away from the traditional and embracing the beauty and sustainability of Florida native asters. These native plants not only provide a festive and eco-friendly alternative to mums but also contribute to the well-being of local ecosystems. After the holidays, plant them in your garden to support pollinators and enjoy their blooms year after year. It’s a sustainable choice that keeps on giving. With Florida native asters, you’re not just decorating for the season – you’re making a lasting impact on your local ecology.
Will you bring home some Asters this holiday season?
Resources:
UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Florida Aster’s https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/asters.html 
UF/IFAS Aster EDIS Document: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP056
Florida Native Plant Society Database: https://www.fnps.org/plants?searchtype=species 
Declaration of Generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the writing process
During the preparation of this work, the author used ChatGPT to help build the blog post. After using this tool/service, the author reviewed and edited the content, and takes full responsibility for the content of the publication.

As the holiday season approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate the vibrant colors and festive decorations that accompany this joyous time of year. While traditional holiday flowers like mums have long been a popular choice for seasonal décor, there’s a Florida-Friendly alternative that not only adds a burst of color to your celebrations but also […]

Plants at Their Peak: Asters! A Native Mums Alternative

Low-Maintenance Groundcovers Groundcovers are low-to-the-ground plants that you can use to help fill out your landscape. Keep reading to learn about some groundcover plants that require minimal watering and care in Sarasota County. Note: The following information is adapted from the Florida-Friendly Landscaping&#x2122; Plant Guide. Legend Apart from the information presented in the table, the [&#8230;]

Low-Maintenance Groundcovers
Groundcovers are low-to-the-ground plants that you can use to help fill out your landscape. Keep reading to learn about some groundcover plants that require minimal watering and care in Sarasota County.
Note: The following information is adapted from the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Plant Guide.
Legend
Apart from the information presented in the table, the following features will be highlighted under each plant’s picture.
Light
: At least 6 hours of full sun
: 2-4 hours of full sun per day
: Full shade

Perks
: Attracts pollinators
: Attracts birds
: Edible parts*

Geography
: Native
: Non-native, Florida-friendly
 
Groundcovers
Ice plant (Carpobrotus edulis)
Credit: Ralph Mitchell, UF/IFAS
  
Height
3 to 6 inches


Growth Rate
Fast


Hardiness
7B to 11


Light Requirement
Full sun


Salt Tolerance
High


Drought Tolerance
High


Soil Preference
Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (6.0-7.2), sandy, well-drained


Comments


Florida-friendly plant
Leaves and flowers are edible
Best grown on rocks and pebbles
Great groundcover to cover up “egg rock” landscape beds, which are not Florida-friendly
Read more here.
Frogfruit (Phyla nodiflora)
Credit: Jackie Lebouitz, UF/IFAS
  
Height
1 to 6 inches


Growth Rate
Moderate


Hardiness
8A to 11


Light Requirement
Full to partial sun


Salt Tolerance
Low


Drought Tolerance
Medium


Soil Preference
Tolerates wide range of soil pH (4.5-8.0), medium to well-drained


Comments


Native plant
Small, purplish-white flowers
Often found by ponds and other freshwater habitats
Attracts butterflies and other pollinators
Host plant for the white peacock butterfly
Read more here.
Sunshine mimosa (Mimosa strigillosa)
Credit: Forest Hecker, UF/IFAS
  
Height
3 to 8 inches


Growth Rate
Fast


Hardiness
8A to 11


Light Requirement
Full sun


Salt Tolerance
Medium


Drought Tolerance
Medium


Soil Preference
Acidic to slightly alkaline (4.5-7.2), well-drained


Comments


Native plant
Fixes nitrogen in the soil
Leaves are “sensitive” and close up when touched
Deep and complex roots excel at erosion control
Host to little sulphur butterfly
Read more here. Quick hits video here.
Perennial peanut (Arachis glabrata)
Credit: UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions
   
Height
3 to 8 inches


Growth Rate
Fast


Hardiness
8B to 11


Light Requirement
Full sun


Salt Tolerance
High


Drought Tolerance
High


Soil Preference
Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (6.0-7.2), sandy clay, well-drained


Comments


Florida-friendly plant
Fixes nitrogen in the soil
Flowers are edible
Dwarf varieties available
Deep and complex roots excel at erosion control
Read more here. Quick hits video here.
Asiatic jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum)
Credit: UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions
 
Height
6 to 8 inches


Growth Rate
Fast


Hardiness
8A to 11


Light Requirement
Full sun to full shade


Salt Tolerance
Medium


Drought Tolerance
Medium


Soil Preference
Tolerates wide range of soil pH (4.5-8.0), medium to well-drained


Comments


Florida-friendly plant
Sensitive to foot traffic
Excellent shade plant
Variegated cultivar exists
Read more here.
Dwarf mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)
Credit: UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions
 
Height
2 to 6 inches


Growth Rate
Slow


Hardiness
7A to 11


Light Requirement
Partial sun to full shade


Salt Tolerance
Medium


Drought Tolerance
Medium


Soil Preference
Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (6.0-7.2), well-drained


Comments


Florida-friendly plant
Good groundcover choice for shaded areas
Sensitive to foot traffic
Best used with stepping stones
Read more here.
Bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flugge)
Credit: Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program
 
Height
3 to 4 inches


Growth Rate
Moderate


Hardiness
7A to 11


Light Requirement
Full sun


Salt Tolerance
Low


Drought Tolerance
High


Soil Preference
Slightly acidic (5.0-6.5), medium to well-drained


Comments


Florida-friendly plant
Often found in meadows and pastures
Recommended mowing height is 3 to 4 inches
Read more here.
Mixed-mowable lawn
Finally, nothing is more low-maintenance than a mixed-mowable lawn. Embracing a mixture of the above groundcovers and more that are covered in the Lawn Ornament Blog Series in the Right Places will lead to a low-maintenance, eco-friendly lawn. You will utilize less chemicals, use less irrigation, and provide for local wildlife, all while having a visually striking lawn.
A handful of the “lawn ornaments” that will be featured in this blog series. Top row left to right: sunshine mimosa, perennial peanut, frogfruit, fleabane. Bottom row left to right: pennywort, lobelia, Florida snow, blue-eyed grass.
If you want to learn about other low-maintenance plants for your landscape, read the rest of our Low-Maintenance Landscaping blog series.
*Although we discuss edibility in this blog, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County is not responsible for any illness or injury associated with foraging. Be aware that some plants may have been treated with pesticides and are not fit for human consumption. Always exercise caution.

Low-Maintenance Groundcovers Groundcovers are low-to-the-ground plants that you can use to help fill out your landscape. Keep reading to learn about some groundcover plants that require minimal watering and care in Sarasota County. Note: The following information is adapted from the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Plant Guide. Legend Apart from the information presented in the table, the […]

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Florida-Friendly Landscaping&trade; (FFL) means using low-maintenance plants and environmentally sustainable practices. Learn how you can have a beautiful landscape that could save you time, energy and money while protecting our future. See the <a href="http://fyn.ifas.ufl.edu/">Florida Friendly Landscaping&trade; program</a> website for training, contact information and more information about the program.

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