General Information
Status in Florida: Native
Native Habitat: Coastal areas, hammocks, and upland woodlands
Native States: Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas
Growing Zones: 8-11
Size at Maturity: 10-20 feet tall, 8-12 feet wide
Phenology: Evergreen
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate
Growth Habit: Upright, spreading
Bloom Season: Spring
Bloom Color: Greenish-yellow
 
Growth Conditions
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Texture: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soils
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Average moisture
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Moderate
Keystone Plant: No
 
Landscape Considerations
Recommended Landscape Uses: Hedge, screen, specimen plant, coastal gardens
Maintenance Tips: Prune to maintain shape, may need occasional watering during drought
Considerations: Thorns may be a consideration for some landscapes
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Yes
Erosion Control: Yes
Nitrogen Fixing: No
 
Other Information
Edible: Yes (the seeds and leaves can be used to make a spice, but should be used with caution)
Pet Safe: Caution (contains compounds that can cause skin irritation in some pets)
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Yes
Historical Medicinal Uses: Used historically as a stimulant, for digestive issues, and for pain relief
Florida Native Companion Plant: Ilex vomitoria, Chasmanthium latifolium
Wildlife Benefit: Attracts pollinators, particularly bees
Caterpillar Host Plant: Yes
Propagation: Seed, cuttings