Status in Florida: Native
Native Habitat: Pine flatwoods, sandhills, and open woodlands
Native States: Southeastern United States, including Florida
Growing Zones: 7-10 (including 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b)
Size at Maturity: 3-6 feet tall
Phenology: Perennial
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate
Growth Habit: Clumping, upright, herbaceous
Bloom Season: Late summer to fall
Bloom Color: Purplish to bronze
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Texture: Sandy, well-drained soils
Soil pH: Acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Dry to average
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Some
Keystone Plant: Yes
Recommended Landscape Uses: Naturalized areas, wildlife gardens, and native plant gardens
Maintenance Tips: Minimal maintenance required
Considerations: Provides good winter interest
Hurricane Wind Resistant: High
Erosion Control: Yes
Nitrogen Fixing: No
Edible: No
Pet Safe: Yes
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Moderate
Historical Medicinal Uses: None widely recorded
Florida Native Companion Plant (matching growing conditions):
Wiregrass (Aristida stricta)
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)
Various native asters (Aster spp.)
Wildlife Benefit: Birds (seeds), provides cover
Caterpillar Host Plant: Yes, various species