Florida Native Tea Bush (Melochia tomentosa)
Charming Florida Native Pollinator-Friendly Native Shrub Common Names: Florida Native Tea Bush, Teabush, Pyramid BushFamily: MalvaceaeOrigin: Southeastern United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean The Florida Native Tea Bush (Melochia tomentosa) is a hardy, drought-tolerant shrub that thrives in sandy soils and supports local pollinators. With its attractive pyramid-shaped growth habit and clusters of pink to lavender flowers, this versatile plant is a favorite for Florida native landscaping and ecological gardens. Though not used for making traditional tea, its leaves and flowers have historical significance in herbal practices. This low-maintenance shrub adds beauty and biodiversity to gardens while providing essential nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Flowers: Small, bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink to lavender bloom abundantly in summer, attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Foliage: The soft, fuzzy leaves are lance-shap