Florida Flowering Shrubs

Geography

• Florida varies widely in geography and climate from north to south. The far south of Florida is a tropical climate, while the north can suffer freezing temperatures. It is important to choose the right flowering shrub for the right area of the state. Euphorbia milii, or Crown of Thorns, for example, does not tolerate frost.

Considerations

• Very showy flowering shrubs make a statement, but that statement should not be overwhelming. Try choosing just one or two flowering shrubs as accent plants rather than overwhelming your landscape with too many of them.

Culture

• Most flowering shrubs prefer well-draining soil and exposure to at least a half-day of full sunlight, according to the University of Florida. In many areas of Florida, it is also important to choose flowering shrubs that can tolerate salty soil and salt spray, such as the popular gardenia (Gardenia augusta).

Types

• Abelia grandiflora, or Glossy abelia, is a good choice for north Florida gardens, according to the University of Florida. This hardy shrub features white flowers that bloom all summer long. Fortune's mahonia (Mahonia fortunei) blooms in late winter or early spring with a profusion of yellow flowers on multiple stems, and is popular in central Florida. Sweet acacia (Acacia farnesiana) has very showy flowers that have a strong, pleasing fragrance. This native shrub is best for the tropical climate of southern Florida.