North Florida Garden Gazette

Native/Pollinator Resources Boom

Native/Pollinator Resources Boom

Key Questions

What native plants attract pollinators in North Florida?

Heat-bloomers like pentas, coreopsis, gaillardia, firebush, muhly grass, coontie, sterile lantana, beautyberry, and Walter's viburnum provide year-round nectar. Avoid neonics for safety. UF/IFAS Bee app and FNPS offer identification.

What resources help identify pollinator-friendly natives?

Use the UF/IFAS Bee app and Florida Native Plant Society (FNPS) for plant and insect ID. Focus on no-neonic natives for food forests and front yards. Supports wildlife and privacy.

Which fast-growing native shrubs suit Florida summers?

Fast-growers like firebush, beautyberry, Walter's viburnum, and others thrive in sun for privacy and wildlife. Perennials replace turf like St. Augustine with ground covers. Ideal for pollinators and year-round appeal.

UF/IFAS Bee app/FNPS; heat-bloomers (pentas/coreopsis/gaillardia/firebush/muhly/coontie, sterile lantana, beautyberry, Walter's viburnum); fast-growing summer shrubs trending for privacy/wildlife, natives/year-round/no neonics, food forests front yards.

Sources (2)
Updated Apr 27, 2026