Flowering Plants That Thrive in the Florida Heat

As summer temperatures continue to climb Florida gardeners are turning to native plants that can handle the heat, humidity, and unpredictable weather patterns of the region. These resilient species aren’t just tough, they’re beautiful, low-maintenance, and beneficial to the local ecosystem.

credit: Dean Schoeppner

Hardy Hibiscus (Hibiscus moscheutos)   Known for its massive, dinner-plate-sized blooms in red, pink, and white, this perennial thrives in full sun and moist soil. It’s a showstopper from late summer into fall and attracts pollinators with ease.

credit: Alice O'Brien

Stokes’ Aster (Stokesia laevis)   This long-blooming native offers lavender or blue flowers from summer into fall. It’s drought-tolerant once established and ideal for sunny borders with well-drained soil.

credit: Bill Stites

Swamp Lily (Crinum americanum)   Perfect for marshy areas and water gardens, this plant produces elegant clusters of pink or white flowers and thrives in wet conditions from spring through fall.

credit: Denny Schrock

Rain Lily (Zephyranthes candida)   A charming crocus-like flower that blooms in autumn, adding color when most summer plants fade. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial sun.

credit: Denny Schrock

Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana)   This compact tree offers fragrant white blooms and scarlet seed pods that attract birds. It tolerates flooding and grows well in varied soil conditions.

credit: Kritsada Panichgul

Indian Blanket (Gaillardia pulchella)   A vibrant groundcover with red and yellow blooms, this short-lived perennial thrives in poor soil, extreme heat, and drought, perfect for hot Florida summers.

Instead rolling the dice in the garden section with plants that might not survive, opt for these native flowering plants that flourish in Florida gardens. They offer color, texture, and wildlife support, but the best part is they require minimal upkeep.