It is important to consider plants that are flood-resistant when designing your landscape in a coastal city like Fort Lauderdale. Doing so will ensure that your garden can endure frequent storms and the occasional hurricane. Here are three of the best flood-resistant plants to consider for your Fort Lauderdale landscape design.
Seagrape (Coccoloba uvifera)
Seagrape is a native plant to South Florida and is commonly found along the coast. This plant is known for its large, glossy green leaves and purple fruit that attracts wildlife. Seagrape is an excellent choice for a flood-resistant plant as it is able to tolerate both saltwater and freshwater flooding. It is also drought tolerant once established, making it a great choice for a low-maintenance landscape.
Planting
Seagrape can be planted in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. It is best to plant in the spring or summer months.
Care
Seagrape requires little care once established. Water regularly during the first year of growth to promote healthy root development. Pruning is not required, but can be done to maintain a desired shape or size.
Uses
Seagrape can be used as a specimen plant, hedge, or large accent plant in your Fort Lauderdale landscape design. The large, shiny leaves can provide a tropical feel to your landscape design. Seagrape pairs well with other tropical plants such as palm trees or hibiscus.
Firebush (Hamelia patens)
Firebush is a shrub that is native to Florida and is commonly found in wetland areas. It is known for its vibrant orange-red flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Planting
Firebush can be planted in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. It is best to plant in the spring or summer months.
Care
Firebush requires moderate watering during the first year of growth to promote healthy root development. Once established, it is drought tolerant. Pruning is not required, but can be done to maintain a desired shape or size.
Uses
Firebush can be used as a border plant, accent plant, or mass planting. The vibrant flowers can provide a pop of color to your landscape design. Our Fort Lauderdale landscape designer likes to pair Firebush with other plants with red or orange flowers, such as crotons or copperleaf.
Coontie (Zamia pumila)
Coontie is a native plant to South Florida and is commonly found in wetland areas. It is a slow-growing, low-maintenance plant that is able to tolerate both wet and dry conditions. Coontie is an excellent choice for a flood-resistant plant as it has a deep root system that anchors it in the soil.
Planting
Coontie can be planted in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. It is best to plant in the spring or summer months.
Care
Coontie requires little care once established. Water regularly during the first year of growth to promote healthy root development. Pruning is not required, but can be done to maintain a desired shape or size.
Uses
Coontie can be used as a groundcover or accent plant. The unique foliage can provide interest to your Fort Lauderdale landscape design. Coontie pairs well with other native Florida plants, such silver buttonwood and swamp sunflower.
Conclusion
When it comes to landscape design in Fort Lauderdale, it is important to choose plants that can thrive in areas prone to flooding. These three flood-resistant plants, Sea Grape, Firebush, and Coontie are not only beautiful additions to any landscape design, but they can also withstand the effects of heavy rain and flooding. By incorporating these plants into your landscape design, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that will last for years to come.
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