Native plants are plants that have been growing in an area for hundreds of years without human intervention. They are often low maintenance and suited for the conditions in which they are already thriving. For Floridians, this means plants that actually like the hot, sticky weather of Florida and the crazy weather fluctuations that can occur.
Three Seasons offers a wide variety of plants local to Palmetto, Parrish, Bradenton and the surrounding Florida areas. If you are looking for minimal maintenance, a natural-looking landscape, native plants are the answer.
What does “native” actually mean?
By most definitions, plant experts describe native plants as those that have existed since pre-colonial times. The term ‘non-native’ refers to plants that have been introduced from other regions or countries.
Most non-native plant species are not a problem, and some are considered beneficial, but native plants are generally considered well adapted to their environment and can handle the natural seasonal cycles of resources, like the rainy season in Central Florida.
Why should I purchase native plants?
Native plants have had absolutely no trouble thriving in Florida for hundreds of years, and native plants can save you time and money. Native plants:
- Do not require fertilizer
- Require fewer pesticides
- Consume less water
Why is that? The short answer is that they are used to the environment. They are capable of growing easily in heat and dealing with the fluctuations in rainfall.
Additionally, native plants provide shelter and food for local wildlife. Our state also has to cope with tumultuous weather, and native plants can handle it. With fewer maintenance requirements, you don’t have to baby your landscaping or worry about what could go wrong when the weather turns.
What are some common native plants in Florida landscaping?

So what exactly is native to Florida that works for landscaping? Let’s take a look at a few of our favorites.
- American beautyberry – This large shrub can grow to 5 feet tall and have a 9-foot spread. The result is striking—bright, purple fruits in the fall and winter that grow at the base of small branches.
- Muhly grass – Muhly grass blooms in a striking shade of pink and grows quite large. It’s a common Florida landscaping element that grows in large clumps 3 to 4 feet tall. Once young plants have grown into maturity, the grass is drought-resistant.
- Coontie cycad – Cycads are a family of plants that have existed since when dinosaurs roamed the earth. The coontie cycad is the only one native to North America and is drought-tolerant, salt-tolerant, and relatively cold tolerant.
- Southern magnolia – The Southern magnolia is an unmistakable tree that produces beautiful, cream-colored, fragrant blooms that can grow up to a foot wide. They will eventually create a large canopy.
Take advantage of Florida’s native plants, visit our nursery or schedule a landscape consultation today.
Native plants have evolved to thrive in the hot, humid Florida weather. We have years of experience with native plant landscaping and know how to maximize color and texture all year. Call Three Seasons at (941) 748-4613 to schedule a landscaping consultation and planting.