Status in Florida: Native
Native Habitat: Moist woodlands, savannas, meadows, floodplains. Often found in areas that experience seasonal flooding.
Native State: Southeastern United States
Growing Zones: 7 - 10
Size at Maturity: 6 - 12 inches tall
Phenology: Herbaceous perennial, bulbous
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate
Growth Habit: Clumping, grass-like foliage
Bloom Season: Spring (March - May), often after periods of heavy rain
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Texture: Adaptable, but prefers moist, well-drained soils. Can tolerate some clay.
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Average to moist. Tolerates periods of flooding, but not prolonged drought.
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low/None
Keystone Plant: No, but supports pollinators
 
Recommended Landscape Uses: Wildflower gardens, woodland gardens, meadows, borders, rain gardens, naturalized areas, pollinator gardens.
 
Maintenance Tips: Little maintenance required. May need to divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor.
 
Considerations: Attractive to a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The flowers are delicate and ephemeral, lasting only a few days.
 
Erosion Control: Yes, can help stabilize soil in moist areas.
Nitrogen Fixing: No
Edible: No (all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested)
Pet Safe: No (toxic to pets)
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: High (due to toxicity)
Historical Medicinal Uses: Some traditional medicinal uses by Native Americans, but use with extreme caution due to toxicity.
Florida Native Companion Plant: Coreopsis leavenworthii ( Leavenworth's Tickseed), Rudbeckia hirta (Black-eyed Susan)
Wildlife Benefit: Provides nectar for pollinators