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 Plectranthus barbatus (Toilet Paper Plant), selecting suitable companion plants is key to enhancing the ecological balance and visual appeal of your garden. Below are recommendations for both Florida Native and Florida Friendly plants, each detailed with their USDA Planting Zone Range, benefits, and suggested uses:

Florida Native Plants:

1. Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)

   • Zone Range: 6-10

   • Benefits: Produces vibrant purple berries that contrast beautifully with Plectranthus barbatus and attract various birds.

   • Use: Ideal for background planting, especially in shaded garden areas.

2. Wild Coffee (Psychotria nervosa)

   • Zone Range: 9-11

   • Benefits: Dense, evergreen foliage complements Plectranthus barbatus and provides habitat for local wildlife.

   • Use: Works well alongside Plectranthus barbatus in shaded or semi-shaded areas.

3. Blue Porterweed (Stachytarpheta jamaicensis)

   • Zone Range: 9-11

   • Benefits: Attracts numerous pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.

   • Use: Excellent for front border placements to add height and color contrast.

4. Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)

   • Zone Range: 8-11

   • Benefits: Provides structural contrast and attracts wildlife with its berries.

   • Use: Suitable for creating a low-maintenance, naturalistic landscape.

5. Cocoplum (Chrysobalanus icaco)

   • Zone Range: 10-11

   • Benefits: Offers dense foliage and edible fruits that attract birds and other wildlife.

   • Use: Great for hedge or background plantings that require little care.

6. Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)

   • Zone Range: 6-11

   • Benefits: Its pink to purple inflorescences in fall provide stunning visual interest.

   • Use: Perfect for adding texture and color contrast in the fall.

Florida Friendly Plants:

1. Pentas (Pentas lanceolata)

   • Zone Range: 8-11

   • Benefits: Continuous blooms attract butterflies and hummingbirds, enhancing pollination.

   • Use: Ideal for planting alongside or in front of Plectranthus barbatus for a splash of color.

2. Coleus (Solenostemon scutellarioides)

   • Zone Range: 10-11

   • Benefits: Provides colorful foliage that contrasts well with the green of Plectranthus barbatus.

   • Use: Excellent for creating depth in the garden with its varied and vibrant leaves.

3. Lantana (Lantana camara)

   • Zone Range: 8-11

   • Benefits: Drought-resistant and robust, attracts a wide range of pollinators.

   • Use: Good for borders or as ground cover to complement the taller Plectranthus barbatus.

4. Verbena (Verbena spp.)

   • Zone Range: 7-11

   • Benefits: Long-lasting blooms attract butterflies and provide continuous ground cover.

   • Use: Excellent for filling spaces around Plectranthus barbatus with vibrant colors.

5. Agapanthus (Agapanthus spp.)

   • Zone Range: 8-11

   • Benefits: Tall, striking flowers add height and a structural element to the garden.

   • Use: Plant behind or among Plectranthus barbatus for a dramatic backdrop.

6. Salvia (Salvia spp.)

   • Zone Range: Depending on the species, generally 5-10

   • Benefits: Attracts bees and butterflies, adding dynamic activity and interest.

   • Use: Can be planted to provide vertical interest and complement the bushier form of Plectranthus barbatus.

This list includes a range of plants that not only thrive in similar conditions but also bring varied benefits and beauties to your garden, creating a lush, vibrant, and environmentally supportive landscape.