CEU Course: Native Trees and Shrubs for Central and North Florida, Zones 8-9

Course Description and Objective

This course serves as an introduction to the diversity of native woody plants suitable for use in developed landscapes in Central and North Florida. Florida has the third greatest diversity of native plants of any state in the U.S., including more than 800 species of woody plants. Despite such an expansive palette to select from, relatively few are used with regularity in the landscapes installed in urban and suburban communities. The historical tendency to use non-native plants has reduced both biodiversity and our sense of place.

The course focuses on the best under used trees and shrubs adaptable to typical landscapes in Central and North Florida, including coastal and urban areas. Aesthetic, selection and maintenance characteristics will be covered for 18-22 species, and will include plants which are available but tend to be less well known and those which have shown tolerance for freeze events. Participants will become familiar with the unique attributes and landscape requirements of the plants, and gain a comfort level needed to incorporate the plants successfully into client landscapes.

This course is appropriate for landscape architects, landscape design professionals and professionals involved in landscape installation and maintenance. It addresses the need to increase both the number and variety of native species in the landscape.

Course Outline

Introduction/Definitions
Landscaping with a Purpose
Best Trees
Best Shrubs
Conclusions

List of References and Source Materials/Bibliography

Florida’s Best Native Landscape Plants: 200 Readily Available Species for Homeowners and Professionals. Gil Nelson, University Press of Florida, 2003.
Best Native Plants for Southern Gardens, by Gil Nelson, University Press of Florida, 2010.
Native Plant Landscaping for Florida Wildlife. Craig Huegel, University Press of Florida, 2010.
Guide to the Vascular Plants of Florida, Third Edition. Wunderlin & Hansen, University Press of Florida, 2011.
The Shrubs and Woody Vines of Florida: A Reference and Field Guide. Gil Nelson, Pineapple Press, 1996.
The Trees of Florida: A Reference and Field Guide. Gil Nelson, Pineapple Press, 1998.
Xeric Guide to Landscaping with Florida Native Plants. Michael Jameson and Richard Moyroud, editor, Florida Association of Native Nurseries, 2011 edition.

Total hours of instructor information: 2 (two) hours in classroom

Instructors: Craig Huegel, Brightman Logan

Other info: Florida Board of Landscape Architecture Approved Course # 009270