www.FANN.org | www.NativePlantShow.com | 35
Native Plants
to use Now:
Groundcovers
Lovegrass
Eragrostis spp.
Winter dormant, Zones 8-11
FANN members generally offer two native species of lovegrass, a perennial
bunchgrass: purple lovegrass, Eragrostis spectabilis, shown in
flower here, and silver lovegrass, E. elliottii, which tends to have more
silvery blue-green foliage and casts a pale yellow-green haze when in
flower. Both make excellent borders and are wonderful when mixed
in wildflower beds as shown in this garden designed by Springer Environmental
Services. This would work on the roadside in the nomow
zone as well. Lovegrasses average 12-18" in height and spread,
and need full sun to light shade and sandy soil. Generally, lovegrass
blooms in the fall but may bloom off and on, particularly in the southern
part of the state. The abundant small seeds are important food
for seed-eating birds. Plants will move around in your landscape, but
are easily spotted and controlled. Many misidentified and non-native
lovegrasses are also available. To purchase Florida native lovegrass,
buy from a source that knows their plants.
JANET BOWERS
/www.FANN.org
/www.NativePlantShow.com