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Bulbine

Common Name: Bulbine

Scientific Name: Bulbine frutescens

Type of Plant: Perennial

Description:This South African native is a perfect perennial for Florida since it tolerates hot temperatures, dry and sandy soils, and blooms throughout the warm months.

Mature Size: 6-12′ tall x 6-12′ wide.

Blooms: Summer-Fall

Fruit:  No

Climate Requirements: Bulbine will grow best if it is planted in a spot that receives full sun, though it can be grown in a site that gets shade for part of the day.  Provide well-drained, compost-enriched soil. 

Care Requirements: Propagation is easy since plants can be divided when the clumps get big enough, and the plants will self-seed.

Spacing: Space plants 12-24″ apart

Water Needs: Water regularly in first growing season to establish root system; once established, reduce frequency.

Maintenance:  Remove spent flowers to encourage fall re-bloom. Remove old, faded foliage as needed.

Attracts: Butterflies

Special Uses/Attributes: Bulbine makes a great ground cover since each plant will grow over time to form a clump that can reach up to four feet wide. This clumping habit also makes bulbine a great passalong plant.  It is generally considered to be deer-resistant.

Florida Native: No

Ground Covers, Inventory, Ornamental Grasses, Perennials

Aztec Grass

Common Name: Aztec Grass

Scientific Name: Ophiopogon intermedius

Type of Plant: Ornamental Grass

Description: Lovely tufts of variegated grass-like foliage spread slowly to form a thick, cushiony turf. Ever-green foliage provides year-round texture and color. Small white flowers are followed by attractive blue berries.

Mature Size: 1-2′ tall x 1-2′ wide.

Blooms: Small white flowers in summer

Fruit:  Small, blue, inedible berries

Climate Requirements: Will grow in full sun to partial shade. For best results, plant in slightly acidic, fertile but well-drained soil.

Care Requirements: Water as needed to keep soil evenly moist, especially in hot weather. Mulch to protect over winter.

Spacing: Space plants 12-15″ apart

Water Needs: Average

Maintenance: Low

Special Uses/Attributes: Aztec Grass is perfectly sized for rock gardens and border fronts. A reliable groundcover for any location. Best planted in groups.

Florida Native: No

Inventory, Ornamental Grasses