120 tree species and more than 100 seed bearing plants grow in the Florida Everglades. This ecosystem is diverse in not only plant life but animal life as well.
Red Mangrove
Red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle) can grow up to 60 feet but is usually found growing only twenty feet in the Glades. The leaves are up to five inches in length with a width of two inches and arranged oppositely to one another. Its blossoms are yellow and pale in color appearing in spring. The fruits of red mangroves are brown and send down roots before falling to the ground to finish growing. Mangrove tree roots offer breeding and nursery habitats for invertebrates, fish and sharks. Red mangroves are at risk due to coastal development and the introduction of the non-native species, Australian pine (Casuarina equistifolia) and the Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius).
Duck Potato
The duck potato (Sagittaria latifolia) is a food source for wildlife in the Everglades. Ducks, songbirds and other creatures feed on the roots and seeds. It blooms July and September producing white, three petaled flowers. A bog plant by nature, duck potato relishes wet feet, full sun and rich soils. This plant can grow to 4 feet in height.
Tassel Flower
The annual tassel flower (Emilia javanica) is naturalized throughout Florida. It grows to 2 feet in height and produces red tassel-like blossoms. Butterflies and other insects feed on its nectar. Tassel flower prefers full sun, good drainage and soils that are slightly dry.
Cardinal Air Plant
The cardinal air plant (Tillandsia fasciculate) is an epiphyte native to various parts of North America, including the Everglades. Its foliage is scaly, rough and has a gray cast. The floral bracts are usually red but can be green, pink or yellow. The flowers can range in color from violet and white (with white being uncommon). Was a common plant before the Mexican bromeliad weevil (Metamasius callizona) and habitat destruction threatened its existence.
Mangrove Rubber Vine
The mangrove rubber vine (Rhabdadenia biflora) looks much like the trees it is found clinging to. Its blossoms are white, trumpet shaped, five lobed and 1 ½ inches long. Some blossoms may have pink or yellow eyes. Its leaves are up to four inches long, dark green with pink tinged veins. Blooming season is year round. Prefers evenly moist, well-drained soils. This plant is attractive to butterflies.
Why Does One Need to Know about Everglades Plants?
Knowing a few of the wonderful plants of the Everglades on a personal level may bring more respect for our natural resources. Many Everglades plants and animals are endangered; this makes the search for ways of preservation more important than ever.
Jocelyn Wyatt - Jocelyn Burke is a freelance writer who shares her knowledge of gardening, child care, family, living on a budget and do-it-yourself ...
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