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South Florida Growing Guide
Light Requirements
Water Requirements
Once established (12–18 months), Porterweed is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Drought tolerant once established (6-12 months). Water 2x per week during establishment. After establishment, no supplemental irrigation needed in South Florida rainy season. Minimal dry-season supplemental irrigation only. SFWMD drought exempt as Florida native.
Soil and Fertilization
Fertilizer: Light balanced slow-release fertilizer — minimal need as Florida native
Schedule: Generally not required as Florida native. Light slow-release fertilizer in February if deficiency observed.
Salt Tolerance
- Mature Height
- 2–4 ft
- Mature Width
- 2–4 ft
- Growth Rate
- fast
- Water Demand
- 2/10
- Florida Grade
- Florida
- Installed Cost
- $
- USDA Zones
- 9b, 10a, 10b, 11
- FLEPPC Status
- None
- Iguana Rating
- 4/10
Where to Buy in South Florida
Find Porterweed at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Porterweed grow in South Florida?
Porterweed has a fast growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.
Is Porterweed safe for pets?
Yes, Porterweed is considered pet-safe. Non-toxic to dogs and cats. Fully safe for pet-accessible landscapes.
How much water does Porterweed need in South Florida?
Low water needs (2/10). Once established (12–18 months), Porterweed is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Can Porterweed tolerate salt air in South Florida?
Porterweed has moderate salt tolerance (5/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.
Is Porterweed available in Miami-Dade County?
In Miami-Dade County, Porterweed is classified as: protected. Florida native — protected from HOA prohibition under Florida Statute 720.
County Availability in South Florida
Miami-Dade County
Florida native — protected from HOA prohibition under Florida Statute 720.3075.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.
View County Guide →Broward County
Florida native — protected. Good for Broward County native plant and butterfly garden programs.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.
View County Guide →Palm Beach County
Florida native — protected. Good for Palm Beach County native garden and wildlife habitat applications.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.
View County Guide →Collier County
Florida native — protected. Excellent for Collier County native garden and restoration applications.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.
View County Guide →Monroe County
Florida native — protected. Porterweed is extremely common in the Florida Keys and is one of the Keys' most important native butterfly host plants.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.
View County Guide →Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.
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Ask about Porterweed
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