Any reference to medicinal or culinary use of plants or plant parts should in no way be considered an endorsement by The Ocala Food Forest or its staff. Research is crucial in safe and proper consumption or experimentational use of any plant.

For Mimosa strigillosa (Sunshine Mimosa), creating an effective companion planting strategy enhances both the aesthetic and ecological dynamics of your garden. Here’s a guide to companion planting for Sunshine Mimosa, carefully chosen to include Florida Native and Florida Friendly plants, complete with their USDA Planting Zone Range, benefits, and uses:

Florida Native Plants:

1. Gaillardia pulchella (Blanket Flower)

   • Zone Range: 8-11

   • Benefits: This drought-tolerant flower adds a splash of color with its bright red and yellow blooms, which attract pollinators that can benefit the growth of Sunshine Mimosa.

   • Use: Ideal for sunny spots where both plants can thrive, creating a vibrant, low-water requiring garden bed.

2. Sabal minor (Dwarf Palmetto)

   • Zone Range: 7-11

   • Benefits: Provides vertical structure and contrast to the low-growing Sunshine Mimosa, while its dense foliage can help keep the soil moist and cool.

   • Use: Plant Dwarf Palmetto in the background or interspersed with Sunshine Mimosa to create layers in your landscape design.

3. Rudbeckia hirta (Black-eyed Susan)

   • Zone Range: 3-10

   • Benefits: Offers striking visual contrast with its golden-yellow flowers, and its height can provide a backdrop to the lower growing Sunshine Mimosa.

   • Use: Excellent for borders or as a part of a mixed perennial bed to provide seasonal interest.

Florida Friendly Plants:

1. Lantana camara (Lantana)

   • Zone Range: 8-11

   • Benefits: Lantana's colorful and profuse blooms attract butterflies and beneficial insects that can also benefit nearby plants like Sunshine Mimosa.

   • Use: Suitable for borders and edges where Lantana can spread without overshadowing the Mimosa.

2. Stachytarpheta jamaicensis (Blue Porterweed)

   • Zone Range: 9-11

   • Benefits: This plant is a known attractor of butterflies and hummingbirds, enhancing the biodiversity around Sunshine Mimosa.

   • Use: Plant alongside paths or in front of garden beds for a continuous flowering display.

3. Muhlenbergia capillaris (Pink Muhly Grass)

   • Zone Range: 6-11

   • Benefits: The fine texture and misty pink blooms of Pink Muhly Grass in the fall provide a stunning visual complement to Sunshine Mimosa.

   • Use: Perfect for creating a textural contrast and enhancing the fall color palette in your garden.

Implementation Tips

• Sunlight and Watering Needs: Ensure all chosen plants share similar sunlight and watering requirements to promote a harmonious growth environment.

• Visual Harmony: Consider the mature sizes and colors of all plants to ensure a cohesive and balanced garden design.

• Ecological Benefits: By choosing plants that attract beneficial insects and pollinators, you enhance the overall health and vibrancy of your garden ecosystem.

By incorporating these companion plants into your landscaping, you can create a diverse and resilient garden that thrives with minimal intervention, bringing year-round beauty and interest to your outdoor space.