Brickellia cordifolia, commonly known as Flyr’s Nemesis, is a rare but striking Florida native wildflower that provides late-season nectar for butterflies and native pollinators. Its clusters of soft lavender-pink flowers bloom in fall when few other nectar sources remain, making it ecologically important. This upright, herbaceous perennial thrives in partial shade and dry, well-drained soils. Though not commonly found in nurseries, it’s a valuable addition to restoration projects, pollinator gardens, and naturalistic landscapes seeking to support declining insect populations.
⸻
General Information
Status in Florida: Native, State Endangered
Native Habitat: Upland pine woodlands, sandhills, dry hammocks
Native States: FL, GA, AL
Growing Zones: 8–10
Size at Maturity: 2–3 ft tall, 1–2 ft wide
Phenology: Winter dormant
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate
Growth Habit: Upright, herbaceous
Bloom Season: Late summer to fall
Bloom Color: Lavender-pink
Growth Conditions
Sunlight Requirements: Full-Part
Soil Texture: Sand, loam
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Average, dry
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low/None
Keystone Plant: No
Landscape Considerations
Recommended Landscape Uses: Pollinator gardens, restoration plantings, naturalized or native-themed gardens, late-season nectar source
Maintenance Tips: Cut back after flowering to promote tidy growth; may reseed lightly
Considerations: Rare in cultivation; protect from excessive moisture and root competition
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Yes
Erosion Control: No
Nitrogen Fixing: No
Other Information
Edible: No
Pet Safe: Yes
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Moderate
Historical Medicinal Uses: None documented
Florida Native Companion Plant: Symphyotrichum spp., Liatris spp., Pityopsis graminifolia
Wildlife Benefit: Pollinators, especially butterflies and native bees
Caterpillar Host Plant: No
Propagation: Seed, division