Native species

Background

As urban communities grow, design and management strategies for new developments become critical factors that determine impacts on natural resources. Native plants support local biodiversity by providing essential forage and shelter for wildlife and pollinators. In addition, once established, native vegetation adapted to dry and sandy soils can help conserve water due to their low water demand, thus decreasing the need for landscaping irrigation.

Requirements and certification

A minimum of 30% of landscaping plants, not including turf grass, shall be site-appropriate Florida native species. (Plants in preserved area can be included.)

Program tip

Certification applicant should include genus and species for each native species in the landscape.