General Information
Status in Florida: Native
Native Habitat: Coastal hammocks, pinelands, thickets, rocky or sandy uplands
Native States: FL (South Florida and Keys), Caribbean, Central America
Growing Zones: 10–11
Size at Maturity: 6–12 feet long (vine or sprawling shrub)
Phenology: Evergreen
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast
Growth Habit: Sprawling, vine, woody, twining
Bloom Season: Spring through fall
Bloom Color: Bright yellow
Growth Conditions
Sunlight Requirements: Full-Part
Soil Texture: Sand, loam, limestone
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Average, dry, well-drained
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Tolerant
Keystone Plant: No
Landscape Considerations
Recommended Landscape Uses: Trellises, fences, coastal landscapes, butterfly gardens, accent plant
Maintenance Tips: Prune to control size and encourage bushier growth; provide support if used as a vine
Considerations: Not frost-tolerant; plant in protected areas in northern zones or grow in containers
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Moderate
Erosion Control: Yes
Nitrogen Fixing: No
Other Information
Edible: No
Pet Safe: Caution (may cause mild irritation if ingested)
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Yes
Historical Medicinal Uses: Used in Caribbean folk medicine for skin conditions and inflammation
Florida Native Companion Plant: Coral Bean, Coontie, Blackbead (Pithecellobium keyense)
Wildlife Benefit: Pollinators, especially butterflies and bees
Caterpillar Host Plant: No