FloridaLandscapeIQ
Coral Creeper (Barleria repens) growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

Coral Creeper — South Florida Plant Guide

Barleria repens

Family: Acanthaceae · Groundcover

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

groundcovershaded areasfoundation plantingwildlife gardenunder tree planting

Style Tags

tropicalnaturalisticcottagewildlife garden

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Partial SunPartial ShadeFull Shade

Water Requirements

Low2/10

Once established (12–18 months), Coral Creeper is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Low to moderate water needs. Once established, tolerates dry periods. Water 1-2x per week during dry season; reduce during rainy season. Tolerates brief dry spells better than most shade groundcovers.

Soil and Fertilization

sandyloamlimestone

Fertilizer: Light balanced granular. Over-fertilization causes rank growth.

Schedule: February and September with light application of balanced slow-release.

Salt Tolerance

Low (3/10) — plant away from salt air exposure
Mature Height
12 ft
Mature Width
24 ft
Growth Rate
moderate
Water Demand
2/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$
USDA Zones
9b, 10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
6/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Coral Creeper at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Coral Creeper grow in South Florida?

Coral Creeper has a moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is Coral Creeper safe for pets?

Yes, Coral Creeper is considered pet-safe. No known toxicity.

How much water does Coral Creeper need in South Florida?

Low water needs (2/10). Once established (12–18 months), Coral Creeper is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can Coral Creeper tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Coral Creeper has low salt tolerance (3/10) and is not recommended near areas with significant salt air exposure.

Is Coral Creeper available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Coral Creeper is classified as: allowed. Allowed.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed. Non-restricted.

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

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Broward County

Allowed

Allowed. Good choice for shaded Broward landscape beds.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Less commonly available in Palm Beach County nurseries.

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed. Limited availability in Collier County nurseries.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed. Low salt tolerance limits coastal Monroe use.

USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.

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Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.

Need a Spec Sheet?

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Ask about Coral Creeper

Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.