Fall in central Florida may not bring the dramatic color changes seen in other parts of the country, but that doesn’t mean it lacks seasonal beauty. In fact, if you take some time to observe our unique environment, you will see that there are a variety of native plants that offer that seasonal color change we all crave this time of year. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or new to the world of native plants, there are plenty of options to bring the essence of fall to your landscape.
FALL FLOWERS: A TIME FOR FLORIDA NATIVE WILDFLOWERS TO SHINE
Some people might think of fall as a time when gardens fade, but in central Florida many flowering plants shine in the fall. October and November are prime months to enjoy some of the most colorful blooms in our region. Native wildflowers can be planted in home landscapes and can be combined with existing plants to add a pop of seasonal color…the Florida way!
Goldenrod is a tall native wildflower with bright yellow flowers that adds a cheerful splash of color to the fall landscape. It has an undeserved reputation for causing allergies (a myth) so it’s often not utilized in the landscape. Goldenrod thrives in various conditions from dry, sandy soils to moist areas. In addition to its beauty, it supports local wildlife, including beneficial insects and pollinators. Coreopsis (Coreopsis sp.), the Florida state wildflower, also known as tickseed, produces sunny yellow blooms that brighten gardens and roadsides this time of year, complementing the warm autumn tones of other wildflowers like goldenrod and blazing star. This native wildflower is easy to grow and thrives in well-drained soils. It can be planted in beds, borders, or naturalized areas for a bright pop of color throughout the summer and fall.
A striking addition to the fall wildflower palette is blazing star (Liatris sp.), a tall, spiky wildflower that produces bold purple blooms late summer through fall. The vertical flower spikes add height and drama to the garden and attract pollinators. Blazing star is drought-tolerant, and it makes an excellent companion to goldenrod, muhly grass, or other native wildflowers.
GRASSES: TEXTURE AND BLOOMS IN FALL FLORIDA GARDENS
Native grasses in Florida offer more than just greenery— they bring texture, movement, and a sense of seasonal change to the garden. These grasses are not only FloridaFriendly native plants, but also provide habitat for wildlife and contribute to a sustainable landscape.
Fakahatchee grass (Tripsacum dactyloides) is a tall, clumping native grass that thrives in dry to moist soils and brings both height and texture to the garden with its bright green leaves and reddish-brown flower spikes. It provides a lush, architectural element to your autumn garden. There is also a dwarf species (Tripsacum floridanum) available that will grow to only 2-3 feet high.
Sand cordgrass (Spartina bakeri), another native, is wellsuited for both wet and dry areas. Its golden-brown seed heads in the fall complement the warm tones of autumn, creating a natural transition as other plants begin to wind down. The showiest blooms of the fall are found on the muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris). Known for its airy, pinkishpurple flower plumes, this native grass creates a dreamy, soft backdrop in any landscape. In October, its delicate flowers form in masses, swaying gently in the breeze and catching the soft autumn light. It grows to only 2-3 feet and can live in a variety of conditions. This is a great native grass suited to most landscapes in central Florida.
SEASONAL FOLIAGE: EMBRACING EARTHY TONES, THE FLORIDA WAY
Though we may not get the bold reds and oranges of northern deciduous trees, Florida still has plenty of foliage that evokes fall. Consider incorporating plants like Coontie cycad (Zamia pumila), which offers a deep, rich green year-round. Coonties are drought-tolerant, grow in sun and shade, and can be used as groundcover or as a feature plant in a larger bed, providing evergreen structure during fall’s more subdued months. They provide a great backdrop for your colorful wildflower plantings.
For a bit of fall drama, beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) is a showstopper. This native shrub produces clusters of bright purple berries along its stems in late summer and early fall, standing out against its green foliage and bringing an unexpected pop of color. Beautyberry not only adds visual interest but also provides food for birds and other wildlife in the garden.
Many other native shrubs have foliage that will change to that familiar red, orange, and even purple that evoke traditional fall foliage. Plants such as oakleaf hydrangea, firebush, and even the statuesque cypress present seasonal foliage changes.
CREATING A FLORIDA-FRIENDLY FALL GARDEN
When planning your central Florida landscape, think about how color and texture can be used during all four seasons. Select plants that bloom during different times of the year and pair them with native grasses for contrast. Add in evergreen shrubs like coontie cycads. Consider elements such as colorful peeling bark and the branch structure of deciduous plants as part of your landscape design. Don’t forget to provide for pollinators ensuring your garden is buzzing with life (and color!) well into the cooler months.
By embracing native grasses, fall-blooming flowers, and plants that provide texture and color, you can create a fall garden that celebrates the unique qualities of central Florida’ natural landscape while supporting local wildlife. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to refresh your existing garden, the possibilities for bringing fall’s beauty to your central Florida yard are endless.
If you have gardening or landscaping questions, contact UF/IFAS Extension Polk County at (863) 519-1041 or visit us online at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk. The Plant Clinic is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. Give us a call or email us at polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu.
To learn more about gardening and landscaping in central Florida, listen to the Your Central Florida Yard podcast. You can find the podcast wherever you listen or find out more on our Substack: https://substack.com/@ yourcentralfloridayard.
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