FloridaLandscapeIQ
Snow Bush (Breynia disticha) growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

Snow Bush — South Florida Plant Guide

Breynia disticha

Family: Phyllanthaceae · Shrub

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

Landscape Uses

hedgefoundation plantingaccentmass plantingspecimen

Style Tags

tropicalresortcolorfulcottage

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial Sun

Water Requirements

Low3/10

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

Moderate water requirements once established. Water 2x per week in dry season; rainy season rainfall usually adequate. Good drainage essential — root rot in poorly drained soils.

Soil and Fertilization

sandylimestoneloam

Fertilizer: Balanced slow-release 8-2-12. Micronutrients in limestone soils for best color.

Schedule: February, May, September with balanced slow-release.

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (4/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
36 ft
Mature Width
24 ft
Growth Rate
moderate
Water Demand
3/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$$
USDA Zones
10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
5/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Snow Bush at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Snow Bush grow in South Florida?

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

Is Snow Bush safe for pets?

Snow Bush is not safe for pets. Berries and leaves may cause GI upset if ingested in large quantities. Low risk in typical landscape settings.

How much water does Snow Bush need in South Florida?

Low water needs (3/10). Once established (12–18 months), Snow Bush is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can Snow Bush tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Snow Bush has moderate salt tolerance (4/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.

Is Snow Bush available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Snow Bush 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. Used in Broward HOA and commercial landscapes.

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

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Cold sensitivity limits northern Palm Beach County exposed sites.

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

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed. Used in Naples area landscapes.

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

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed. Low salt tolerance — protected sites.

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.

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Ask about Snow Bush

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