Parker Public Library Native Plant Garden

Parker Public Library in Bay County have established a native plant garden in partnership with the 850 Garden Club, creating a vibrant and educational space to reconnect the library with the community. Spanning approximately 456 square feet across two highly visible sites at the library entrance, the project will transform the previously underutilized areas into a welcoming landscape that supports pollinators and serves as a hub for gardening programs and activities. By integrating native plants into this central community space, the library aims to inspire residents and expand access to outdoor hands-on learning opportunities.

DID YOU KNOW? Florida native plants are adapted to thrive in our climate, conditions and soil. They need less water than other plants, and require no fertilizers, pesticides or other chemicals. This saves precious water resources and keeps excess nutrients from polluting lakes, rivers and streams.

A mulched garden bed with young plants runs alongside a brick and blue building, bordered by wood. Grass and a sidewalk are visible in the background.

Parker Public Library Native plant garden

The garden was made possible by a grant from the Florida Wildflower Foundation.

The following native species were planted:

Wild columbine

Wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) is one of Florida’s most striking and unique native wildflowers. It occurs naturally in only three counties in the Panhandle and is a state-listed endangered species.
Read more… Wild columbine

Virginia willow

Virginia willow (Itea virginica) is a spreading shrub with showy spikes of tiny white flowers that bloom late winter through early summer. The plant provides food and cover for wildlife…
Read more… Virginia willow

Sunshine mimosa

Sunshine mimosa (Mimosa strigillosa) has showy “powderpuff” flowers that bloom spring through summer, attracting mostly bees. The plant is a larval host for the Little sulphur butterfly.
Read more… Sunshine mimosa

Muhlygrass

Nothing says fall in Florida like the purple haze of Muhlygrass (Muhlenbergia capillaris) in bloom. When planted en masse, this perennial bunchgrass puts on a spectacular fall display.
Read more… Muhlygrass

Wild petunia

Wild petunia (Ruellia caroliniensis) typically blooms late spring through early fall, attracting a variety of pollinators. It is also a host plant for the White peacock butterfly.
Read more… Wild petunia

Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)

Coontie (Zamia integrifolia)

POLLINATORS NEED YOUR HELP!

Help Florida’s wildlife and environment by using native wildflowers and plants in your landscape. Click here to learn more information on planting, selecting and maintaining native plants, or check out these resources: