The plants listed in this article are those recommended by South Florida Water Management as appropriate for Xeriscaping and also drought resistant. There are many other plants and trees that can be used for Xeriscaping in South Florida, but not all of them can handle severe drought conditions. Turf should be used in very limited areas in Xeriscaping.
Grassy areas are the heaviest consumers of water in landscaping.
Use turf only where needed for functional benefits children's play areas, pet areas, etc. To conserve water use turf alternatives such as wider entry areas, gazebos, ground covers, mulches and shrubs. Native Florida plants can be used very successfully in a Xeriscape if properly placed. However, the fact that a plant is native does not mean it will survive in every setting. Some native plants grow in wet, swampy areas, while other flourish in high, dry scrub communities.