FloridaLandscapeIQ
Society Garlic (Tulbaghia violacea) growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

Society Garlic — South Florida Plant Guide

Tulbaghia violacea

Family: Amaryllidaceae · Groundcover

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

Landscape Uses

border edgingmass plantingbutterfly gardendrought tolerant accentedible ornamental

Style Tags

drought tolerantfloweringbutterflylow maintenancedeer resistant

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial Sun

Water Requirements

Low1/10

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

Very low water. 1x per week dry season maximum once established. Extremely drought tolerant — one of the most drought tolerant border perennials available. Overwatering causes rot.

Soil and Fertilization

sandyloamwell drained

Fertilizer: Very light balanced 8-2-12. Society Garlic is highly drought and low-nutrient adapted.

Schedule: February and September very light balanced slow-release fertilizer — extremely low nutrient requirements.

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (5/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
12 ft
Mature Width
12 ft
Growth Rate
moderate-clumping
Water Demand
1/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$
USDA Zones
7, 8, 9, 10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
7/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Society Garlic at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Society Garlic grow in South Florida?

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

Is Society Garlic safe for pets?

Society Garlic is not safe for pets. Amaryllidaceae family — Allium relatives are toxic to dogs and cats. Garlic/onion-related compounds. DISCLOSE to all pet owners — especially dog owners. Keep pets from eating foliage.

How much water does Society Garlic need in South Florida?

Low water needs (1/10). Once established (12–18 months), Society Garlic is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can Society Garlic tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Society Garlic has moderate salt tolerance (5/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.

Is Society Garlic available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Society Garlic is classified as: allowed. Allowed.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed. NOT FLEPPC.

✓ Coastal OK

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

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Broward County

Allowed

Allowed. Common throughout Broward County.

✓ Coastal OK

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

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Very popular and outstanding performer throughout Palm Beach County.

✓ Coastal OK

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

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed. Common in Collier County.

✓ Coastal OK

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

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed. Moderate Keys availability.

✓ Coastal OK

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 Society Garlic

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