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Exploring the Native Flowering Plants of Siesta Key

Posted by Best Western Siesta Key onJuly 17, 2023 in Fun Facts, General, Sarasota, Sarasota Wildlife.

Siesta Key and the surrounding area are renowned for their white quartz sand beaches, blue-green waters, and vibrant sunsets. However, beyond the unmistakable charm of the beach are botanicals that don’t always get the same level of attention. There are a diverse array of native flowering plants that add to the island’s beauty and ecological health. Join us at Best Western Siesta Key as we discuss some of the vital flora in our unique ecosystem.

Mangroves are Essential For Regional Stability

The importance of mangroves, not just in Siesta Key but all of Florida, can’t be overstated. These robust plants hold the land together even during hurricanes, protecting the state from winds capable of catastrophic damage. Mangroves also provide a habitat to a variety of Florida wildlife, from crabs and fish to birds like Osprey and Roseate Spoonbills.

Beach Sunflowers add a Pop of Yellow Beauty

One common sight on Siesta Key’s sandy shores is the Beach Sunflower. With its bright yellow blossoms, this native plant thrives in sandy soil and salty air. Its ability to tolerate harsh coastal conditions and provide a burst of color makes it a favorite among locals and visitors.

Sea Oats Hold Fragile Dunes Together

Swaying in the coastal breeze, Sea Oats are vital to Siesta Key’s dune ecosystem. These grass-like plants have dense, drooping seed heads that play a crucial role in stabilizing the shifting sands. Their root systems help prevent erosion, making them essential for preserving the island’s delicate coastal balance.

Simpson’s Stopper Brings in the Green

The Simpson’s Stopper is a native shrub found throughout Siesta Key, often cultivated for its ornamental beauty. This evergreen plant has clusters of fragrant white flowers and small red fruits that attract birds and butterflies, bringing much-needed wildlife into the island’s urban spaces.

Firebush Adds Pretty Red Flowers to the Landscape

As its name suggests, the Firebush ignites Siesta Key’s landscapes with its red-orange tubular flowers. Like Simpson’s Stopper it also is good for pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers.

You’ll See Seagrapes at the Beach

A staple coastal dweller, the Seagrape is a salt-tolerant tree that’s a common sight along the shores of Siesta Key. Its large, round leaves provide shade and privacy for beachgoers, while wildlife can enjoy its grape-like fruits. These plants are also edible for humans though we don’t recommend sampling them while out. Note that like mangroves, these plants are protected.

Blanket Flowers Add Vibrant Color

The Blanket Flower, with its striking red and yellow blooms, is another native gem that brightens up Siesta Key’s landscapes. This resilient wildflower thrives in sandy soil, adding color the island’s natural beauty. It also attracts bees, important pollinators in the region.

Simpson’s Honeycup Attracts Butterflies

The Simpson’s Honeycup, a dainty yet hardy plant, adds charm to Siesta Key’s native flora. Its small, white, daisy-like flowers contrast sharply against its dark green foliage. The plant also a popular choice for butterfly gardens in the area as it brings these visitors to its blooms.

Fiddlewood is Popular Among Landscapers

The Fiddlewood is a native tree with dense clusters of fragrant, dainty white flowers. Its smooth, grayish bark and bright green foliage make it a popular plant for landscapers who rely on its shrub-like tendencies, though it can also grow as a single-trunked tree.

See Lignum Vitae at Selby Gardens

You can find Lignum Vitae among the plants in Sarasota’s Marie Selby Botanical Garden. Known for its dense and durable wood, this native evergreen tree produces small, striking blue flowers, juxtaposing strength with delicacy.

The native flowering plants of Siesta Key contribute to the island’s visual appeal and ecological balance. These plants have adapted to thrive in the island’s sandy, saline-rich environment, playing a crucial role in protecting the delicate coastal ecosystems. As visitors and residents enjoy the natural beauty at Best Western Siesta Key, it’s essential to appreciate and protect these native treasures.