General Information
Status in Florida: Native
Native Habitat: Moist hardwood forests, streambanks, slopes
Native States: FL, GA, AL, MS, SC, NC, TN, KY, and throughout the eastern and central U.S.
Growing Zones: 4–9
Size at Maturity: 3–6 feet tall, 3–6 feet wide
Phenology: Winter dormant
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate
Growth Habit: Rounded, woody shrub
Bloom Season: Late spring to summer (May to July)
Bloom Color: White, sometimes turning creamy or greenish with age
Growth Conditions
Sunlight Requirements: Part-Shade to Shade
Soil Texture: Loam, sandy loam, rich moist soils
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Wet to average
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low/None
Keystone Plant: No
Landscape Considerations
Recommended Landscape Uses: Woodland gardens, shade borders, naturalistic landscapes, understory shrub
Maintenance Tips: Cut back in winter to promote fuller growth and flowering; mulch to retain moisture
Considerations: Prune old blooms and stems for tidy appearance; may need extra water in dry periods
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Moderate
Erosion Control: Yes
Nitrogen Fixing: No
Other Information
Edible: No
Pet Safe: Caution (mildly toxic if ingested in large amounts)
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: No
Historical Medicinal Uses: Traditionally used by Native Americans and settlers for kidney and bladder issues
Florida Native Companion Plant: Oakleaf Hydrangea, Coral Honeysuckle, Southern Shield Fern, Pinxter Azalea
Wildlife Benefit: Attracts pollinators including bees and butterflies
Caterpillar Host Plant: No