Diary of a Gardener -Understanding Invasive Plants in Florida: Protecting Our Landscapes and Wildlife
Florida is home to an incredibly diverse array of plants, from lush tropical trees to delicate wildflowers. But not all plants are welcome here. Our warm, humid climate creates ideal conditions for plants that might not be invasive elsewhere to spread aggressively here. Some species, while beautiful, are invasive, spreading beyond where they are planted and disrupting our natural ecosystems. Understanding what makes a plant invasive—and how to choose responsibly—helps protect Florida’s environment, wildlife, and even your own garden.
What Makes a Plant Invasive?
An invasive plant is a non-native species that grows aggressively, spreads rapidly, and often outcompetes native plants. These plants can:
Alter soil chemistry
Change fire regimes
Reduce habitat for native wildlife
Displace native plants, including those that support pollinators
In short, invasive plants don’t just grow—they take over, harming both the environment and the balance of local ecosystems.
Common Invasive Plants in Florida
Some of the most common invasive plants in Florida include:
Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) – Attracts Monarch butterflies but can disrupt their migration and spread harmful parasites.
Mother of Millions (Kalanchoe spp.) – A succulent that spreads rapidly via tiny plantlets and displaces native vegetation.
Wandering Dude (Tradescantia fluminensis) – A groundcover that smothers native plants and forms dense mats.
Mimosa Tree (Albizia julibrissin) – Fast-growing and produces abundant seeds that invade disturbed areas.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) – Hardy and attractive but spreads aggressively in Florida landscapes, outcompeting native species.
Common Lantana (Lantana camara) – Colorful but highly invasive, spreading through abundant seeds.
Invasive vs. Caution-Listed Plants
You may also see references to plants on “caution lists”. These are non-native plants that aren’t fully invasive yet but have traits that could potentially cause problems if left unchecked. They’re not banned, but gardeners are encouraged to monitor them closely and avoid planting near natural areas.
Native Plants vs. Florida-Friendly Plants
It’s important to know the difference between native plants and Florida-friendly plants:
Native Plants naturally occur in Florida and have evolved to support local ecosystems. They provide habitat, nectar, and seeds for native wildlife.
Florida-Friendly Plants are non-native but low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and non-invasive. They’re suitable for Florida landscapes and provide ecological benefits without the risks of invasives.
Both native and Florida-friendly plants are excellent choices for sustainable gardening.
Common Arguments People Make (and Why They Don’t Hold Up)
Despite warnings, some gardeners continue to plant invasive species, often saying things like:
“I won’t let it escape my yard.” – Even a small number of plants can spread via wind, water, birds, or accidental debris.
“It attracts pollinators or butterflies.” – While some invasives provide nectar, they can harm wildlife by introducing diseases, parasites, or disrupting migration patterns. Tropical milkweed is a prime example.
“It’s low-maintenance and looks good.” – Beauty alone doesn’t justify ecological harm. Invasive plants can overtake native species and reduce biodiversity.
“It’s just one plant—I can manage it.” – Even a single plant can produce hundreds or thousands of seeds that spread beyond your control.
Ignoring these warnings is not just risky—it’s irresponsible. Planting invasives knowingly contributes to the degradation of Florida’s ecosystems, threatening native plants and wildlife.
Responsible Gardening: Where to Check Your Plants
Before planting, it’s always a good idea to check whether a species is considered invasive in Florida. Useful resources include:
Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council (FLEPPC) – Lists invasive and cautionary plants by category.
University of Florida IFAS – Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants – Identification and management of invasive plants.
Florida Native Plant Society – Guides for native plant alternatives.
Bottom Line: Choosing plants carefully protects Florida’s landscapes, wildlife, and even your own garden from unintended consequences. By planting native or Florida-friendly species and avoiding invasives like tropical milkweed, mother of millions, wandering dude, mimosa tree, Mexican Petunia, and common lantana, you’re helping keep Florida’s natural beauty thriving for generations to come. Even a single choice can make a big difference.
