Title 60 · Chapter 60 - SUBDIVISION AND LANDSCAPING
Chapter 60 - SUBDIVISION AND LANDSCAPING
Section: 60
PART 11. - DEFINITIONS Chapter 61 - ROADWAY DESIGN AND ACCESS MANAGEMENT Chapter 60 - SUBDIVISION AND LANDSCAPING[1]
Footnotes: --- (1) ---
Editor's note— Chapter 60, "Subdivision and Landscaping," was adopted by the city council by ordinance (Doc. #25097) on September 16, 1991.
PART 1. - SUBDIVISION AND BUILDING SITE DESIGN
1A. - GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 60.100. - Relationship to the Growth Management Plan.
The Subdivision and Building Site Design requirements of the following Sections implement GMP Urban Development and Land Use Policy Statements #1 and 8, to allow for the efficient, orderly and economic expansion of metropolitan systems, while directing growth away from natural areas not suitable for development and improving the general quality of the urban environment; Transportation, Policies 1.4.3, 1.4.4, 1.8.8, 1.9.1, 1.10.9, and 1.11.1 to reinforce land use/transportation relationships in subdivision and other land development regulations, as a means of accommodating or directing travel characteristics; Conservation Policy Statement #3, to regulate development so as to minimize impairments to the functioning of vital natural systems; and Housing Policy Statement #2, to provide for flexibility in site design and means for encouraging innovative development methods aimed at reducing housing costs.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097; Ord. No. 2022-23, § 5, 4-25-2022, Doc. #2204251203)
Sec. 60.101. - Purpose of Subdivision and Building Site Design Requirements.
The requirements set forth in Parts 1A—1E are intended to coordinate land development in accordance with orderly physical patterns; to implement the Orlando Growth Management Plan and other general plans and policies adopted by the City Council; to prevent and discourage haphazard, premature, uneconomic or scattered land development; to provide for adequate access to building sites for egress and ingress, parking and loading, emergency vehicle access and proper maintenance of streets; to encourage the development of sound and economically stable areas within the City; and to serve as one of the several instruments of land use control authorized by the Florida Legislature for the City of Orlando.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.102. - When Subdivision and Building Site Design Requirements Apply.
Whenever land is subdivided or re-subdivided after the effective date of this Chapter, and whenever building sites are developed or redeveloped, such development shall be developed and designed in accordance with the requirements of Parts 1A—1E, and shall be reviewed and approved in accordance with the applicable requirements of Chapter 65.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Secs. 60.103—60.109. - Reserved.
1B. - SUBDIVISION DESIGN
Sec. 60.110. - Purpose of Subdivision Design Requirements.
The subdivision design requirements of this Section are intended to ensure that all lands included within subdivisions will be suitable for the various purposes proposed in the request for subdivision approval; and further, that all subdivisions will be served adequately and economically by those normal public facilities and services which may be necessary in each particular case.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.111. - General Requirements and Cross-References.
In addition to the specific requirements of this Part, all subdivisions shall be designed and developed in accordance with the following:
Growth Management Plan. All subdivisions shall be designed in a manner consistent with the City's adopted Growth Management Plan.
Street and Right-of-Way Design Requirements. Consult Chapter 61, Part 1 for design requirements for public and private streets, thoroughfares, driveways, sidewalks and bikeways.
Design Along Major Thoroughfares. Consult Chapter 61, Part 2 for special design requirements for all subdivisions located along major thoroughfare streets.
Zoning District Regulations. All lots shall conform to the Zoning District and Use Regulations in Chapter 58, Part 2.
Building Site Design. All lots shall conform to the Building Site Design requirements of Chapter 60, Part 1C.
Specific Uses. Consult Chapter 58, Parts 3B—3D for design requirements for specific residential and non-residential uses which may affect subdivision design.
Bufferyards. Consult Chapter 60 to determine if bufferyards will be required on any portion of the subdivision, which may affect subdivision design.
Environmental Protection Requirements. Consult Chapter 63, Part 1 for requirements affecting the arrangement of lots, blocks, streets and other improvements to take the greatest advantage of and minimize disturbances to the environmental resources of the site.
Public Facilities Requirements. Consult Chapter 60 for requirements providing that all subdivisions will be served by adequate public facilities and services.
Other Requirements of this Chapter. Subdivisions shall be designed to conform to all other requirements of this Chapter which may in any way affect the proposed development or the surrounding area.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097; Ord. No. 2010-33, § 3, 8-30-2010, Doc. #1008301102)
Sec. 60.112. - Subdivision Name.
Every subdivision shall be given a name by which it shall be legally known. Such name shall not be the same or in any way so phonetically or visually similar to any name appearing on any recorded plat in Orange County as to confuse the records or to mislead the public as to the identity of the subdivision, unless the subdivision is an additional unit or section by the same developer or his successors in title. The name of the subdivision shall be determined at Preliminary Plat approval.
Alpha-Numeric Plat Naming System. Wherever a development will result in more than one subdivision plat, the Planning Official may require that all such plats use the Alpha-Numeric Plat Naming System. Wherever a development has been using the Alpha-Numeric system, its use shall be continued.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.113. - Design for Maximum Efficiency.
All subdivisions shall be designed and constructed so as to ensure maximum efficiency of maintenance of improvements at minimum cost to the public.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.114. - Self-Imposed Restrictions.
If the owner of a parcel of property being subdivided places restrictions on any part of the land contained in the subdivision that are greater than those required by this Chapter, such restrictions or reference thereto may be required to be indicated on the Subdivision Plat. However, in such cases the City shall only be responsible for the enforcement of the requirements of this Chapter, and not the greater restrictions.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.115. - Compatibility with Adjacent Uses.
The subdivision layout shall be such as to ensure compatibility of the proposed improvement and intended uses with adjacent existing and proposed land uses.
Subdivisions Fronting on Naturally Occurring Lakes. For any new development site that incorporates or fronts on any portion of a naturally occurring lake, the street which accesses lots or building site(s) shall be located between the shoreline and the lots or building site(s). This requirement may be modified by the Planning Official if he finds that one of the following criteria are satisfied:
1.
The original (as existing at the time of the adoption of this Chapter) development site fronts on or contains less than 700 feet of shoreline measured at the normal high water level as determined in Chapter 63 Part 2 and there are no existing street stub-outs adjacent to the development site.
2.
The existing or planned land uses precludes the expansion or continuation of the street proposed on the development site.
3.
Strict adherence to this requirement is contrary to the public health, safety, or welfare.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097; Ord. of 4-20-1992, Doc. #25634; Ord. of 10-4-1993, Doc. #26940)
Sec. 60.116. - Adequate Lot Size and Design.
All proposed lots shall be of sufficient size and configuration to adequately accommodate the intended use in full compliance with applicable zoning requirements and other regulations of the City, including off-street parking and support facilities required for the type of use and development anticipated.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.117. - Street System.
The proposed street system shall be such as to provide for smooth flow of internal traffic circulation, adequate provision for off-street parking, loading and unloading of goods and equipment, and proper connections with the external road and highway system.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.118. - Utilities and Services.
Adequate provision shall be made for all necessary private and public utilities and services, including specific sites to be dedicated to public use, where applicable.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.119. - Geodetic Information System.
All subdivision plats shall give reference to and be tied to at least 2 Orange County Geodetic Information System monuments and/or Certified Sectional Corners, whose coordinate values have been determined by the County-wide Survey Project. Each plat shall show said monuments and/or Certified Corners, described with name, number and State Plane Coordinate Values, and its bearing structure must be based on the State Plane Coordinate System from the information provided by these monuments.
Note: This is in addition to the requirements of Florida Statutes ch. 177.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.120. - Building Site.
Should the building site contain more than one lot or parcel intended for separate fee-simple sale after development, interior lot setback and yard requirements shall apply to each individual lot, and any applicable building site setback requirements will be established from the building site perimeter.
Where the building site will be retained in single ownership after development, interior lot setback and yard requirements shall be disregarded and any applicable setback requirements shall be established from the building site perimeter, provided that all lots or parcels contained within a building site shall be bound together by location of principal structure(s), replatting or an instrument, approved by the City Attorney as to form and legality and recorded in the Public Records of Orange County, Florida.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISIONS
Sec. 60.121. - General Requirements.
Mean Width of Corner Lots. The mean lot width for corner lots shall conform to the Zoning District and Use Regulations in Part 2 of Chapter 58.
Side Lot Line Orientation. Shall be at right angles to street lines wherever practical (radial to curved street lines).
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097; Ord. of 10-4-1993, Doc. #26940)
Sec. 60.122. - Double-Frontage Lots Prohibited; Exception.
The use of double-frontage lots shall be strongly discouraged except where essential to overcome disadvantages of topography or environmental characteristics. Where permitted, access rights shall be permitted on only one street, and a note stating "Vehicular Access Rights Dedicated to the City of Orlando" shall be lettered on the Subdivision Plat along the street lines of all other frontages.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.123. - Reserve Strips Prohibited; Exception.
Reserve strips shall not be permitted adjacent to a proposed street in such a manner as to deny access from adjacent property to the street, unless the reserve strip is requested by the City and dedicated to the City of Orlando as a controlled access strip.
RESERVE STRIP
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.124. - Residential Subdivision Design.
Street Layout. The layout of blocks and streets within all subdivisions shall be designed to allow for dispersal of residential traffic and to minimize the impact of residential traffic at connections to the surrounding street system. Connections to adjacent existing street systems, stub-outs to adjacent properties classified as residential on the Growth Management Plan Future Land Use Maps, and a minimum number of connections shall be required in accordance with Section 61.221.
Streets shall be designed based upon function and to provide continuity in the internal street system. Connections to the surrounding street system shall be designed to discourage cut-through traffic between arterial streets. To discourage excessive speeds, traffic calming techniques such as street design with curves, medians, textured pavement, changes in alignment, short lengths and other special designs shall be required. In all cases, the street layout shall allow efficient access to all lots by emergency and service vehicles arriving from outside the area.
Number of Connections Required. The required number of connections shall be based upon the project frontage along a major thoroughfare or residential collector, the Access Management System contained in Chapter 61 and the above requirements. Connections to the surrounding street system shall be designed to encourage the dispersal of residential traffic and to minimize the impact of residential traffic at connections to the surrounding street system. A minimum of two connections to the surrounding street system shall be required for all residential subdivisions which contain over 30 dwelling units. The City Transportation Engineer shall be authorized to waive this requirement where technically impractical.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097; Ord. of 10-4-1993, Doc. #26940)
Sec. 60.125. - Pedestrian Access Ways and Bicycle Circulation.
All residential subdivisions shall be designed so as to promote pedestrian and bicycle circulation within the development and to provide access to surrounding areas, including schools, public parks, and other destinations. Connections to adjacent existing or planned sidewalks, bicycle paths, and mass transit facilities shall be provided in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 58 through Chapter 67.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097; Ord. of 10-4-1993, Doc. #26940)
Sec. 60.126. - Utility Easements.
In residential subdivisions, utility easements shall be provided on each side of all rear lot lines, and on each side of side lot lines, where necessary, to accommodate poles, wires, conduits and other facilities for electrical, telephone, cable television and other utilities. Rear lot line easements shall be at least 6 feet in width, and side lot line easements at least 5 feet in width. Lots which include easements shall be arranged and designed so as to fully permit their development in full compliance with the provisions of this Chapter.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.127. - Lot and Block Design on Major Thoroughfares.
Wherever a residential subdivision abuts or contains an existing or proposed Major Thoroughfare Street, reverse-frontage lots or service roads shall be required along the thoroughfare. The rear of the reverse-frontage lots shall be buffered from the thoroughfare in accordance with the bufferyard requirements of Chapter 60, and shall in addition include within the bufferyard area a minimum 4 foot wall or berm. Access rights from reverse-frontage lots to the thoroughfare shall be dedicated to the City, and a note stating "Vehicular Access Rights Dedicated to the City of Orlando" shall be lettered on the Subdivision Plat along the street line adjacent to the affected lots.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097; Ord. No. 2010-33, § 3, 8-30-2010, Doc. #1008301102)
Sec. 60.128. - Flag Lots.
When deemed necessary to achieve creative planning, to eliminate accesses to collector or thoroughfare streets, preservation of natural amenities or important historical or archeological values, the Planning Official may approve flag lots, but only in residential developments approved in accordance with Chapter 65, Part 2H, and provided the following conditions are satisfied:
Rules for Abutting or Stacking. No flag lot shall abut more than one other flag lot, nor shall flag lots be double stacked across a common street.
Limitation on Number. In no instance shall flag lots constitute more than 10% of the total number of building sites in a given development, or 3 lots (whichever is more).
Calculation of Lot Area. The lot area occupied by the flag driveway shall not be counted as part of the required minimum lot area (see illustration).
Driveway Length. No flag driveway shall be longer than 150 feet.
Collector and Thoroughfare Access. Flag lots shall not be permitted whenever their effect would be to increase the number of building sites taking driveway access to a Collector or arterial Street.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
NON-RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISIONS
Sec. 60.129. - General Requirements.
Wherever a proposed subdivision is located in a non-residential zoning district, or will be composed partly or wholly of non-residential uses, such subdivision shall conform to all applicable design requirements for subdivisions generally, and in addition shall satisfy the following requirements.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.130. - Access to Residential Areas Discouraged.
Unless specifically required by the City, no streets shall be extended to the boundaries of non-residential subdivisions so as to connect with or to provide future connection with adjacent streets within existing or future residential areas.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.131. - Buffering from Residential Areas.
Where any non-residential subdivision will adjoin an existing or future residential area, additional depth shall be provided within all applicable lots or parcels so as to accommodate permanent landscaped bufferyards and other applicable screening devices required by Chapter 60, Part 2.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.132. - Width-to-Depth Ratio.
To ensure adequate maneuvering area for loading and other vehicular traffic, and to provide for proper site design, the depth of any non-residential building site should not exceed 3 times its width.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.133. - Other Requirements.
The subdivision shall be designed so as to satisfy all other requirements deemed necessary by the City to ensure proper development and to satisfy the intent and purpose of this Chapter.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Secs. 60.134—60.139. - Reserved.
1C. - BUILDING SITE DESIGN
Sec. 60.140. - Frontage Requirements.
No Building Permit shall be issued for any development unless it has been determined that the building site has adequate access, in accordance with the Minimum Building Site Frontage Requirements of Chapter 58, Part 2, Figure 1, to a street which complies with one of the following:
Public Street. A public street which has been constructed to City standards and dedicated or conveyed by plat, deed or other legal process to the City, Orange County or the State of Florida, or which has become a public street under or by act of Florida law; or
Private Street. A street which has been approved under the private street requirements of Chapter 65, or which was approved by the City as a private street prior to the effective date of this Chapter.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
STREET CORNER VISIBILITY
Sec. 60.141. - Street Corner Visibility.
General Requirements. Corner site distance areas are hereby established at street intersections for both public and private streets, as set out below.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.142. - Location and Dimensions.
The following describes the location and dimensions for street corner visibility. In all cases, the Roadway and Traffic Design Standards, FDOT January 1988 as amended from time to time shall apply, and the Bureau of Transportation Engineering shall determine adequate street corner visibility, according to generally accepted engineering standards.
Street with Stop Control Intersecting Street Without Stop Control. Where a street with stop control devices intersects a street without stop control devices, corner site distance areas shall be measured only from the streets controlled by stop control devices. The corner sight distance area shall be maintained in accordance with the following schedule, and shall be measured from a point parallel to the property line and 2 feet from the left edge of the travel lane:
EXPAND Posted Speed (mph) Corner Sight Distance (feet) 25 350 30 400 35 450 40 500 45 550 50 600 55 650
MAJOR STREET/MINOR STREET
Signalized Intersections or Intersections with Stop Controls on All Approaches. At signalized intersections or at intersections with stop control devices on all approaches, corner site distance areas shall be measured on all streets. The corner site distance area shall be maintained in accordance with the following schedule and shall be measured from a point parallel to the property line and 2 feet from the yellow line of each street:
EXPAND Posted Speed (mph) Corner Sight Distance (feet) 25 350 30 400 35 450 40 500 45 550 50 600 55 650
4-WAY STOPS & SIGNALIZED INTERSECTIONS
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.143. - Development Restrictions.
No structure, fence, wall, hedge or shrub planting within the Street Corner Visibility Area shall obstruct vision between two and eight feet above street level. No tree shall be permitted to remain within the Visibility Area unless the foliage is maintained at a height of at least eight feet. No parking spaces may be located in the Visibility Area, and no vehicle may be parked in such area. However, this requirement shall not apply to any post, column or similar structure whose cross-section or diameter is less than one foot.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.144. - Stormwater Retention/Detention Facilities as Site Amenities.
Stormwater retention/detention facilities shall qualify as visual site amenities if one or more of the following criteria are met, as determined by the Zoning Official:
1.
The stormwater facility is integrated into the landscape and site design;
2.
The side slopes of the stormwater facility are 5:1 or less and the depressions or swales appear as a lawn or landscaped area;
3.
The stormwater facility can be used as a passive recreation area;
4.
The stormwater facility is designed as an entrance feature to the site or development;
5.
The stormwater wet detention facility incorporates approved aquatic plants, as listed in the Landscape and Vegetation Protection, Part 2C of this Chapter;
6.
The stormwater wet detention facility includes a water feature such as a fountain or spray jet.
Developments that utilize stormwater retention/detention facilities as visual site amenities shall qualify for the following incentives:
1.
An allowance to encroach up to 50% into the bufferyard or up to 100% of the thoroughfare bufferyard, as required by Landscaping and Vegetation Protection, Part 2F of this Chapter, and as approved by the Zoning Official.
2.
A full or partial waiver of the OUSWMM requirements to fence slopes greater than 5:1 up to 3:1 and of the 20 foot wide maintenance access areas. Vegetative barriers or fencing materials other than chain link may be allowed to substitute for the OUSWMM fence requirement. The type and extent of the waiver of these requirements shall be as determined by the City Engineer on a case by case basis during final site plan review.
Stormwater retention/detention facilities which qualify as visual amenities shall be maintained as such.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Secs. 60.145—60.149. - Reserved.
1D. - REQUIRED IMPROVEMENTS
Sec. 60.150. - General Requirements and Cross-References.
In addition to the specific requirements of this Part, all subdivisions shall also include the following improvements:
Streets and Rights-of-Way. Dedications and improvements for public and private streets, thoroughfares, driveways, sidewalks and bikeways, in accordance with Chapter 61.
Specific Uses. Any dedications and improvements which may be required in regard to a specific residential or non-residential use as provided by Chapter 58.
Bufferyards. All easements, plantings and improvements which may be required in connection with the establishment of bufferyards in accordance with Chapter 60, Part 2.
Stormwater Management. A complete stormwater management system shall be provided for all areas of the subdivision, and for handling stormwater runoff that flows into or across the subdivision from the outside in accordance with the requirements of the Orlando Urban Stormwater Management Manual (OUSWMM).
Public Facilities. Any dedications and improvements for the provision of public facilities and services which may be required by Chapter 60.
Other Requirements of this Chapter. Subdivisions shall also be provided with all other improvements required by this Chapter which may in any way apply to the proposed development.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.151. - Monuments.
Permanent Reference Monuments. Permanent Reference Monuments (PRM's) shall be placed in accordance with Florida Statutes ch. 177, as amended. Each PRM shall be set in the ground so that the top is flush or not more than 6 inches below the finished grade.
Permanent Control Points. Permanent Control Points (PCP's) shall be placed along street rights-of-way or block lines in accordance with Florida Statutes ch. 177, as amended.
Permanent Bench Marks. Permanent Bench Marks (PBM's) to establish mean sea level vertical control shall be installed within all subdivisions at intervals not to exceed 1,000 feet.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.152. - Dedications.
No Subdivision Plat or Site Plan shall be approved unless it is accompanied by a dedication of all land, easements, and improvements which are required to be dedicated under this Chapter, including land, easements and improvements for street rights-of-way, utility easements, cross-access easements, through-access corridors, and vehicular access rights. Such dedication shall be subject to the prior approval of the Office of the City Attorney as to its form, sufficiency, and manner of execution.
Execution of the Dedication. The dedication shall be executed by all owners having a record interest in the lands developed in the same manner in which deeds are required to be executed. All mortgagees having a record interest in the lands being subdivided shall likewise execute either a joinder and consent contained on the plat or plan or a separate instrument joining in and ratifying the plat or plan and all dedications and reservations thereon.
Designation on Plat or Plan. The applicant shall be required to clearly show by use of dotted lines or by other means the location and purpose of all dedications on the Site Plan or Subdivision Plat.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Sec. 60.153. - Reservations.
Effective Period, Notice to Agencies. (Reserved.)
Release by City Council. The City Council may release any reserved land at any time by resolution if they find that it is no longer necessary for any public purpose.
Designation on Plat or Plan. The applicant shall be required to clearly show the location and purpose of all reservations on the Final Site Plan or Final Subdivision Plat, and to also show in dotted lines, or by other means, how any reserved land shall be used in the event the reservation is released or otherwise voided.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097)
Secs. 60.154—60.159. - Reserved.
1E. - ENFORCEMENT
Sec. 60.160. - Enforcement.
Failure to install, maintain or protect trees and other landscaping plant material, or removal of plant material to increase visibility of a sign or structure, in accordance with the requirements of Parts 4A—4E of this Chapter shall be deemed to be a violation of this Chapter, subject to enforcement by the Code Enforcement Board in accordance with Chapter 5 of the City Code. The property owner, occupant and/or agent shall be jointly and individually responsible in all enforcement matters.
Joint-Use Driveway. Wherever a joint-use driveway is required by Part 1D of this Chapter or installed at the option of the applicant, the Zoning Official shall be authorized to make adjustments in the location and design of landscaped areas required on the affected building site(s), but not in the number of plantings required.
(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25097; Ord. of 4-20-1992, Doc. #25634)
1F. - RESERVED[2]
Footnotes: --- (2) ---
Editor's note— Part 1F formerly pertained to bikeways. See Ord. of 4-20-1992, Doc. #25634.
Secs. 60.161—60.199. - Reserved.
PART 2. - LANDSCAPING AND TREE PROTECTION[3]
Footnotes: --- (3) ---
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, adopted Dec. 9, 2013, deleted the former Part 2, §§ 60.200—60.266, and enacted a new Part 2 as set out herein. The former Part 2 pertained to landscaping and vegetation protection and derived from ordinances adopted Sept. 16, 1991, Doc. #25097 and Doc. #25090; an ordinance adopted Apr. 20, 1992, Doc. #25634; an ordinance adopted Oct. 4, 1993, Doc. #26940; an ordinance adopted Mar. 21, 1994, Doc. #27368; an ordinance adopted Jan. 24, 2005, Doc. #050124909; Ord. No. 2010-33, § 3, adopted Aug. 30, 2010, Doc. #1008301102; and Ord. No. 2013-53, § 7(Att.), adopted Nov. 25, 2013, Doc. #1311251203.
2A. - GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 60.200. - Relationship to the Growth Management Plan.
The Landscaping and Tree Protection requirements contained in this chapter implement several Goals, Objectives and Policies found in the Conservation (C) and Urban Design (UD) Elements of the Growth Management Plan (GMP), and are oriented toward balancing environmental and conservation concerns with development (C—Goal 1) and integrating the manmade environment with the natural environment (UD—Goal 6). The requirements of this Chapter provide for the conservation of soils, native plant communities and urban woodlands (C—Policies 1.5.4, 1.5.5, 1.5.6, 1.5.7; UD—Policies 6.1.1, 6.1.2); require protection of trees during development (C—Policy 1.5.5, 1.5.6; UD—Objectives 6.6; UD—Policy 6.6.1) and set standards for buffering and screening and for promoting the use of Florida Friendly landscaping (C—Policy 1.5.7; UD—Obj. 6.1; UD—Policy 6.1.1). This chapter also sets standards for planting lake edges (UD—Objectives 6.2; UD—Policy 6.2.1); for promoting stormwater management systems as visual amenities, and promoting green roofs, water gardens, and alternative rainwater collection systems within stormwater management systems (UD-Objective 6.5; UD Policy 6.5.1); for vegetative screening of above ground utilities (UD—Objectives 7.1; UP—Policy 7.1.1); and, for potable water conservation (C—Policies 1.8.1, 1.8.2, 1.8.3, and PW—Policies 1.2.1, 1.2.3, and 1.2.4).
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.201. - Purpose.
The purpose of the landscaping and tree protection regulations is to protect the general welfare of Orlando residents and visitors by establishing minimum standards for the protection and removal of trees and native plant communities, promoting water conservation and enhancing the city's appearance. The landscape regulations are intended to achieve the following objectives:
(a)
Conserve water by preserving existing established and native landscaping, and plants that are adapted to Central Florida rainfall, encouraging the use of plants suited to the growing conditions of a particular location, and establishing standards for installation and maintenance of plants and irrigation systems.
(b)
Improve the appearance of Orlando and perpetuate its image as "The City Beautiful," emphasizing the natural beauty of Central Florida and the unique flora of the region.
(c)
Improve environmental quality through the retention and installation of plants, including improved air and water quality through removal of carbon dioxide and the generation of oxygen, facilitation of aquifer recharge and reduction of stormwater runoff, decrease air and noise pollution, prevention of soil erosion and sedimentation, and mitigation of heat and glare.
(d)
Increase land values by providing landscaping as a capital asset.
(e)
Provide human psychological and physical benefits, promote healthy environments, and promote participation in outdoor activities with greenscapes.
(f)
Provide habitats for urban wildlife.
(g)
Protect endangered or threatened plant species, habitats, and rare or endangered ecosystems as regulated by Chapter 63, Environmental Protection.
(h)
Eliminate invasive exotic species that threaten out ecosystem.
(i)
Achieve a 40 percent tree canopy across the city through the protection of existing trees and the planting of new trees.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.202. - Application of Landscape Regulations and Required Maintenance.
All new developments, substantial improvements, substantial enlargements, and changes in use to a higher intensity class shall meet the requirements and standards of this Part. The Zoning Official shall be authorized to modify the requirements and standards when the Goals, Objectives, and Policies of the Growth Management Plan are furthered by such action and when acceptable alternatives for complying with the intent of this Part are provided.
Whenever plant materials are required by this Chapter, they shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the standards and requirements of this Part. All landscaping installed or retained to meet the requirements of this chapter shall be maintained in a healthy condition. Installed or retained vegetation which dies after development has been completed shall be replaced to meet the requirements of this Chapter within thirty (30) days.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.203. - Modification of Development Standards.
The Zoning Official shall be authorized to approve modifications of development standards and administrative variances for landscaping and tree protection in accordance with the standards and procedures provided in Chapter 65 of this Code.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.204. - Canopy and Understory Trees.
Approved species of canopy and understory trees are identified in Figure 12, Approved Plant List. Wherever reference to tree caliper in any section of Part 2 is made, the caliper of existing trees shall be measured at diameter at breast height (dbh), or 4.5 feet above the ground. The caliper of installed trees listed as being up to 4" shall be measured 6" above the ground, and the caliper of installed trees listed as more than 4" shall be measured 12" above the ground.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.205. - Subdivision and Street Design Modifications to Protect Trees.
(a)
Design Modifications. The City Engineer shall be authorized to approve design modifications to the Subdivision and Street Design Standards of Chapters 60 and 61 according to Chapter 65, Modification of Requirements, in order to protect trees and native plant communities.
(b)
Joint-Use Driveway. Wherever a joint-use driveway is required by Chapter 61 of this Code or installed at the option of the applicant, the Zoning Official shall be authorized to make adjustments in the location and design of landscaped areas required on the affected building site(s), but not in the number of plantings required.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
2B. - TREE REMOVAL AND PROTECTION
Sec. 60.206. - Purpose.
(a)
Purpose. The purpose of these requirements is to protect trees and native plant communities. The requirements of this Part are not intended to be punitive or to cause a hardship to any individual, or private or public company that uses reasonable care and diligence to protect trees and native plant communities within the City of Orlando.
(b)
Harmful Activities Prohibited. It shall be unlawful to cut down, damage, top, poison or in any other manner destroy or cause to be destroyed any tree or native plant community as covered by this Part except in accordance with the provisions of this Part.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.207. - Trees Protected by this Part.
Any existing tree with a diameter at breast height (dbh) of 10 inches or larger diameter, measured at a height of 4.5' above the ground shall be considered a protected tree; except for invasive exotic tree species, which should be replaced. It shall be unlawful for any person to directly or indirectly destroy, permanently injure or remove any such tree without first obtaining a Tree Removal Permit unless exempt by Florida Statutes. It shall further be unlawful to encroach into the minimum undisturbed area (see Sec. 60.211), without first obtaining a Tree Encroachment Permit from the Parks Official (or his or her designee) as required by Chapter 65.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207; Ord. No. 2020-13, § 1, 4-13-2020, Doc. #2004131205; Ord. No. 2021-48, § 1, 8-23-2021, Doc. #2108231203)
Sec. 60.208. - Enforcement.
(a)
Violations. Any tree removal in violation of this Part or any failure to maintain or protect trees in accordance with this Part shall be a violation of this Chapter and subject to enforcement in accordance with Chapter 5 of the City Code. The property owner and/or agent may be jointly and individually responsible in all enforcement matters pertaining to this Part.
(b)
Equivalent Replacement of Tree dbh with Caliper. As part of any enforcement action regarding violation of the requirements of this Part, the Code Enforcement Board may require, in addition to any fines or other enforcement measures, the replacement of any removed or damaged tree(s) with new tree(s) of at least 3 inches in caliper each and having a total tree caliper not less than the dbh of the removed or damaged tree(s). Replacement trees shall be installed in locations approved by the Parks Official.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.209. - General Requirements.
(a)
Tree Removal Permit Required. Removal of non-exempt existing 10" dbh or larger trees shall be prohibited without first obtaining a Tree Removal Permit.
(b)
Mitigation. Tree Removal Permits may be approved where site design modifications are not feasible (see Chapter 65), and shall require replacement with a number of trees or caliper inches of trees as determined by the Parks Official to be of equivalent environmental benefit; or shall be remedied by a monetary value (as established in the fee permit schedule).
(c)
Tree Removal Permit Fees. The Parks Official may review and develop from time to time, a fee schedule for tree removal permits. Fees shall be based upon tree species, tree size, and tree health. Changes in the fee schedule shall be approved by the City Council. The fee schedule shall include a review and recommendation of prescribed monetary penalties for the unlawful removal of trees. The Code Enforcement Board may utilize the recommended penalties for unlawful tree removal adopted by City Council resolution. A tree removal permit fee may be waived if it is determined by the Parks Official that the tree's health, structural integrity, or location pose a hazard, or that the tree is of an invasive, exotic species.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207; Ord. No. 2020-13, § 1, 4-13-2020, Doc. #2004131205; Ord. No. 2021-48, § 1, 8-23-2021, Doc. #2108231203)
Sec. 60.210. - Specimen or Historic Trees.
The Parks Official shall be authorized to officially designate certain protected trees as Specimen or Historic Trees, based on their size, age, historic association, species or unique characteristics. Trees so designated within the City jurisdiction shall be protected without regard to their location.
(a)
Specimen Trees. Specimen Trees are trees that have been identified by the Parks Official as being of outstanding mature size, excellent form, and a healthy example of the species. Specimen trees shall include Champion Trees identified by the Florida Division of Forestry and/or American Forests.
(b)
Historic Trees. Historic Trees shall be described as any healthy tree with a trunk caliper of 30" dbh or more.
(c)
Designation. Official designation as either a Specimen or Historic Tree shall require a site visit, tree evaluation, and a letter of evaluation and recommendation filed in the City of Orlando Tree Inventory. Designation as a Specimen or Historic Tree may occur in any of the following ways:
1.
A property owner may request such designation at any time. To do so, the property owner shall submit an expert evaluation by a landscape architect, horticulturalist, urban forester, arborist, historian or other horticultural expert.
2.
The Parks Official may make such designation as part of his or her review of any application for development under this Chapter, stating in writing the reasons for such designation. The applicant may appeal such designation to the appropriate reviewing authority(s) for the application in question.
3.
The Parks Official may make such designation as part of an overall tree protection program for the City. Such designation shall be subject to approval by resolution of the City Council.
(d)
Protection. The Parks Official may impose requirements for the protection of Specimen and Historic Trees.
(e)
Removal and Encroachment. The removal of or encroachment on any designated Specimen or Historic Tree is prohibited unless authorized under a valid tree removal or tree encroachment permit.
(f)
The removal of a historic or specimen tree without a permit is deemed to be an irreparable and irreversible violation. A fine of up to fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000.00) may be imposed for the removal of a historic or specimen tree without a permit. The following factors shall be considered in determining the amount of the fine:
1.
The gravity of the violation;
2.
Any actions taken by the violator to correct the violation; and
3.
Any previous violations committed by the violator.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207; Ord. No. 2020-13, § 1, 4-13-2020, Doc. #2004131205)
Sec. 60.211. - Minimum Undisturbed Areas.
An undisturbed area shall be established around every retained tree (an existing tree to be preserved). The minimum undisturbed area is measured from the center of each individual tree in a group.
(a)
Standard Radius. The minimum undisturbed area for on-site trees shall be defined as a radius of 0.75 feet per dbh inch, measured from the center of the tree.
(b)
Minimum Radius. Retained trees of 6" dbh or less shall have a minimum undisturbed area of 5 feet, measured from the center of the tree.
(c)
Maximum Radius. The maximum required radius of an undisturbed area shall be 24 feet, measured from the center of the tree.
(d)
Radius from Off-Site Trees. In order to protect off-site trees, undisturbed areas shall be provided from the centers of off-site trees within 10 feet of the property line. The minimum radius shall be 0.5 feet per dbh inch (Figure 1), but the required undisturbed area shall not extend beyond a site's Building Restriction Line.
(e)
Trees identified by the Florida Invasive Species Council as Category I or II invasive exotic species shall have no required undisturbed areas.
(f)
Palms of less than 10" dbh shall have no required undisturbed area. Palms of 10" or greater dbh shall have a minimum undisturbed area of 24" from the base of the trunk.
Figure 1. Undisturbed Area Required from Off-Site Trees
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207; Ord. No. 2021-48, § 1, 8-23-2021, Doc. #2108231203)
Sec. 60.212. - Development Prohibited Within the Undisturbed Area.
All development activities, except those specifically permitted by this Part, shall be prohibited within the required undisturbed area. All temporary construction activities shall be prohibited within the undisturbed area, including all digging, trenching, construction lay-down areas and parking of vehicles.
(a)
Temporary Fencing of Undisturbed Area. Prior to commencement of construction, the developer shall enclose the entire undisturbed area within a fence or similar barrier as shown in Figure 2 and as follows:
1.
Posts at least 1.5 × 3.5 inches shall be installed in the ground deep enough to be stable and with at least 3 feet visible above the ground.
2.
Protective posts shall be placed not more than 6 feet apart, and shall be linked together by a rope, chain, or net fence fabric.
Figure 2. Temporary Fencing of the Undisturbed Area
(b)
Grade Changes. The existing elevation around the retained tree or native plant community shall not be changed within the undisturbed area, except as described in Section 60.213 or as approved by the Parks Official (See Chapter 65, Tree Removal and Encroachment Permits).
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.213. - Permitted Activities Within the Undisturbed Area.
(a)
Limited Construction. Limited construction is permitted within the undisturbed area when performed in conjunction with a valid Tree Encroachment Permit. Limited construction activities may include:
1.
Sidewalks, if constructed on top of existing grade with minimal excavation.
2.
Tunneling for the installation of underground utilities and irrigation piping (Figure 3).
Figure 3. Underground Utility Placement Near Existing Trees
3.
Fencing, post-mounted signs, lighting, flagpoles, and other similar structures if footings are non-continuous and not more than 24" in width or diameter (Figures 4 and 5).
4.
Irrigation components such as surface emitters (drip systems), and trench irrigation piping which approaches the center of the tree rather than laterally, to within 6 feet of the tree.
5.
Walls and monument (ground) signs, if constructed without continuous footings. These should be constructed with lintels above the root zones (Figure 6). Footings for lintels are limited to 24" width or diameter.
6.
Minimal grade changes of 5" or less.
7.
Decks and at-grade unit pavers when not constructed on continuous footings or slabs.
8.
High-albedo pavement and pervious pavement when installed with grade changes of 5" or less.
9.
Other construction activities, when approved by the Zoning Official, such as driveways and foundations or walls for buildings, when reasonable alternatives are not practical.
Figure 4. Permanent Fencing within the Undisturbed Area
Figure 5. Free Standing Wall with Fencing within the Undisturbed Area
Figure 6. Free Standing Wall with Lintel within the Undisturbed Area
(b)
Tree Encroachment Permit. A Tree Encroachment Permit is required for all activities in the undisturbed area except the following:
1.
Sodding and Ground Cover. Placement of sod or ground covers, and the preparation of the ground surface for such covers.
2.
Occasional Parking After Development. The undisturbed area may be used for occasional parking (approximately 1 to 2 times per week) after the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy for the building site, when approved by the Zoning Official in accordance with the standards of this Part, provided:
A.
The Zoning Official finds that the spaces are located at the periphery of the building site, or otherwise so located that they are unlikely to be used on a continuous basis.
B.
All driveways and aisles serving the occasional parking spaces are paved.
C.
Access to occasional parking spaces is not blocked by curbing or other barricades which would prevent occasional use.
D.
Where necessary, the Zoning Official may require barriers to protect the tree(s) from cars.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.214. - Compensatory Pruning.
The Parks Official shall be authorized to require pruning of the crown of any protected tree, where he or she finds that such pruning is essential to compensate for stress placed upon the tree by the encroachment. The Parks Official shall specify the proportionate amount of the required pruning. The crown must be pruned by removing lateral branching and trimming, rather than topping. All pruning practices shall conform to the National Arborist's Association Standards for Trees.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
2C. - TREE RELOCATION
Sec. 60.215. - Relocation of Existing Trees.
The relocation of existing trees is not required but is encouraged as an alternative to clearing. The standards of this Part shall apply to the relocation of existing trees.
(a)
Tree Removal Permit. Although a tree removal permit is required for tree relocation, the tree removal permit fee may be waived if, in the opinion of the Parks Official, appropriate measures are taken to ensure a reasonable chance of survival. Appropriate measures may include pruning of limbs, root pruning well in advance of relocation, protection of root mass, trunk, branches, and foliage during relocation, relocation to an appropriate planting location, preparation of the new planting pit, and maintenance after completion of the relocation. Such measures must comply with ANSI (American National Standard) A300 (Part 6)-2012, Planting and Transplanting, or most recent revision, and the accompanying Best Management Practices for this Part. This work must be accomplished by, or under the immediate direction of an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborist.
(b)
Transplant Sites. Relocated trees may be transplanted onto the same site or onto other sites under the same ownership; onto private sites under different ownership with the approval in writing of the owner of that site; or onto or off of public property with the written consent of the controlling agency.
(c)
Value. Relocated trees, if transplanted onto the same site, will be counted as existing trees of the same size when determining conformance with landscape requirements and for purposes of achieving points in the Non-Residential and Multifamily Landscape Worksheet.
(d)
Invasive Species. Trees listed in the most recent Florida Invasive Species Council (FISC) published list of invasive plant species as Category I or II invasive, exotic species shall not receive any consideration under this section. Category I species must be removed from the site.
(e)
Mitigation Fees. Upon completion and acceptance of the required tree survey or Timber Cruise, the applicant's ISA-certified arborist must submit a proposed plan, including number, type, and condition of all trees proposed to be relocated, proposed schedule, methods and measures to be followed, and monitoring plan to the Parks Official. If the plan is approved, the Parks Official will calculate tree removal mitigation fees. The applicant will receive a credit of ninety percent of the mitigation fees, and shall pay ten percent of the calculated fees to the City Street Tree Trust Fund.
When trees are relocated to the final destination, or to a temporary holding site, the applicant shall notify the City Parks Division in writing within thirty calendar days, and provide a report on the progress. At the end of one calendar year after the date of transplanting, the applicant shall submit a follow-up status report.
Approved trees with a diameter at breast height (dbh) of less than ten inches shall not require mitigation, nor be eligible for mitigation credits, but applicants are encouraged to relocate those as well. Trees less than 10 inches dbh are still eligible to receive points toward the Minimum Required Landscape Score, per subsection (c) above.
The City arborist may inspect the trees and the work involved at any point during the process to verify that the work is being accomplished as proposed. If the arborist determines that the approved plan is not being followed in good faith, the applicant must pay the full calculated mitigation fees.
The Parks Official may approve, on a case-by-case basis, alternate tree relocation plans, practices, and standards that differ from the requirements of this section, when the applicant demonstrates a good-faith effort to comply with the intent of this section.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207; Ord. No. 2021-48, § 2, 8-23-2021, Doc. #2108231203)
2D. - STREET TREES
Sec. 60.216. - Street Trees.
Street trees are required within established rights-of-way along public and private streets as provided in this Part. Street trees must meet the minimum standards of Florida #1 (as defined by Florida Grades and Standards for Nursery Plants, or the most current minimum standards of Florida #1 plant materials). Street trees shall be installed prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. For sites where conditions render the installation of street trees impractical, as determined by the Parks Official, payment for the amount equivalent to the required number of street trees shall be made to the Street Tree Trust Fund. All installed street trees shall be approved by the Parks Official and be maintained by the owner or developer in a healthy, growing condition for a period of three years following issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy. Any street trees that have been removed, die or that do not meet the minimum standards of Florida #1 (Florida Grades & Standards for Nursery Plants) as determined by the Parks Official or Code Enforcement Division, shall be replaced with Florida #1 Grade trees by the owner or developer within thirty days, at which time another 3-year warranty period shall begin.
(a)
Location. Canopy trees shall be planted in the parkways, in between the sidewalk and the vehicular travel lane, on both sides of the street, in accordance with Chapter 61. In general and where practical, street trees on any given street should be of consistent size, spacing, and species, in order to achieve a "tree-lined boulevard" appearance. Where site conditions render canopy trees impractical, understory trees or palms may be allowed at a spacing of not closer than 25 feet on center and not greater than 60 feet on center, with a typical spacing of between 30 feet and 45 feet, except as otherwise approved by the Parks Official. Minimum planting areas shall be in accordance with Part 2J of this chapter.
(b)
Size and Species. All street trees shall be at least 12 feet in height and 2 inches caliper at time of installation, with a clear trunk height of at least 7 feet, except when otherwise approved by the Parks Official. The species of any tree installed in rights-of-way shall be determined by the Parks Official, based on the Approved Plant List (Figure 12).
(c)
Wind Resistance. All installed street trees shall have, at a minimum, moderate wind-resistance as listed in the Approved Plant List (Figure 12).
(d)
Streetscape Designs. Streetscape designs in Activity Center and Mixed Use Corridor Zoning Districts, or where insufficient parkway exists, shall be exempt from the minimum tree planting dimensions prescribed in Chapter 60, Part 2J, but shall require special tree planting treatments if the minimum dimensions are not provided. Such treatments may include, but are not limited to, the incorporation of root barriers; structural soil, soil cells, and/or root tunnels underneath the pavement; and pervious pavement. Streetscapes in the AC-3A Downtown Metropolitan Core District shall be designed as required in Chapter 61, and in accordance with the latest edition of the Downtown Orlando Streetscape Guidelines.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207; Ord. No. 2022-23, § 6, 4-25-2022, Doc. #2204251203)
2E. - BUFFERYARDS
Sec. 60.217. - Purpose.
The purpose of the bufferyard requirements is to separate different land uses, and minimize nuisances such as dirt, litter, noise, glare of lights, signs, air pollution, unsightly views, odor, or danger from fires or explosions. Both the land area and the planting specified for each bufferyard requirement of this Part are designed to reduce nuisances between adjacent land uses.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.218. - When Bufferyard Requirements Apply.
Bufferyard requirements shall apply to development in all districts except the AC-3A Downtown Metropolitan Activity Core district.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.219. - How to Determine Bufferyard Requirements.
Bufferyards shall be located at the perimeter of the building site for any given use, and shall not be located in any portion of a public right-of-way or any proposed right-of-way established by the Major Thoroughfare Plan, Chapter 61. The following procedure shall be followed to determine the type of bufferyard required:
(a)
Identify the land use intensity class of the proposed use and all contiguous use(s) by referring to Figure 3, Land Use Intensity Table, in Chapter 58, Part 1. The Zoning Official shall be authorized to determine land use types that do not clearly fall within any of the listed categories.
(b)
Determine the bufferyard required on each building site boundary (or portion thereof) by referring to Figure 8 of this Part.
(c)
Select the desired bufferyard option from those enumerated in Figure 9 of this Part. Any of the enumerated options shall satisfy the requirement of buffering between adjacent land uses.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.220. - Trees Required in Bufferyards.
(a)
Minimum Tree Canopy Coverage. The bufferyard shall have a minimum of 80% tree canopy coverage over both the length and area of the bufferyard, using the minimum tree spacing as depicted in Figure 10, Tree Spacing Categories, and in Figure 12, the Approved Plant List. For example, a bufferyard 'B', Option 2, that is 100 feet in length and 1,000 square feet in area, will meet the requirements with a combination of 1 Spacing Category A tree, 2 Category B trees, and 1 Category C tree (30' + 20' + 20' + 16' = 86 lineal feet; and 1,536 square feet); or with 5 Category C trees (5 × 16' = 80 lineal feet; and 1,005 square feet), or any other combination which achieves the minimums. Figure 9, Bufferyard Requirements and Options, illustrates examples that meet the requirements.
(b)
Retained Trees. Existing, retained trees may be counted toward the bufferyard requirements, provided appropriate measures are taken to ensure the continued health of the retained trees. Existing tree canopies shall be counted in their entirety. For example a group of 3 retained live oaks may have a scaled canopy over 55' of a bufferyard 100 feet in length. To achieve the minimum 80% tree coverage, an additional 25' of canopy (per Spacing Category) must be installed. Existing retained trees that have not reached maturity may be counted either by means of scaling the current canopy size or by means of counting each per the Spacing Category.
(c)
Installed Trees. Installed understory and canopy trees used to satisfy bufferyard requirements shall have a minimum caliper size of 3" and a minimum height of 12 feet. Installed palms used to satisfy bufferyard requirements shall have a minimum clear trunk height of 8 feet.
(d)
Using Bamboo to Meet Bufferyard Requirements. Clumping-type bamboo may be used as a substitute for installed trees to meet bufferyard requirements in bufferyards of ten feet or less in width. Bamboo shall be spaced at not less than 8' on center and shall have a minimum height at time of installation of 8 feet, and shall be of a variety with a minimum mature height of at least 18 feet.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.221. - Bufferyard Design Requirements.
(a)
Existing Native Plant Communities. The use of existing native plant communities is strongly encouraged in bufferyards. Existing natural ground cover should be retained where possible by avoiding scraping, grading and sodding within the bufferyard. Where Figure 9 requires additional trees or shrubs to be installed in an existing natural area, it should be done in a manner which minimizes disturbances to native species.
(b)
Ground Cover. Where it is not possible to retain existing natural ground cover, bufferyards shall be sodded or provided with other ground cover.
(c)
Shrubs. Shrubs used to satisfy bufferyard landscape screen requirements shall be evergreen medium or large shrubs (see Fig. 12, Approved Plant List), a minimum of 3' in height at time of planting. At least 80% of the length of the landscape screen shall be of plant varieties with natural mature heights of at least 5'.
(d)
Walls. Walls used to satisfy bufferyard requirements shall be constructed of masonry, concrete, or stone. Walls shall be a minimum of 6' in height (8' in bufferyard 'D' Option 1) and shall meet all the requirements of Chapter 58. Pilasters shall be required for masonry and concrete walls and shall not be spaced more than 60 linear feet on center.
(e)
Adjacent Bufferyards, Walls, or Trees. Where adjacent properties have existing bufferyards, walls or trees, the Zoning Official shall be authorized to modify the requirement for bufferyard width, walls, or trees in the required bufferyard. The Zoning Official shall be authorized to specify the layout within the bufferyard of required walls.
(f)
Parking Lot Landscaping. Plantings and structures required for parking lot landscaping may be counted toward satisfying bufferyard requirements.
(g)
Mixed-Use Development. Where a building site is developed as a single mixed-use development, bufferyards may be reduced between the various constituent uses through the Master Plan process. Bufferyards required at the perimeter of the development shall be based upon the individual uses on each portion of the property.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.222. - Use of Bufferyards.
(a)
District Yard Setback Requirements. Bufferyards may be counted toward satisfying zoning district yard setback requirements, may be counted toward satisfying open space requirements, and may be used for passive recreation. They may contain pedestrian or bike trails, provided that: (a) no required plant material is eliminated, (b) the total width of the bufferyard is maintained, and (c) all other regulations of this Chapter are met. The following uses are not permitted in bufferyards: playfields, stables, swimming pools, tennis courts, parking lots and vehicular use areas, equipment storage and other open storage, buildings or overhangs.
(b)
Stormwater Retention/Detention Facilities in Bufferyards. The Zoning Official shall be authorized to allow surface stormwater retention/detention areas to encroach into bufferyards up to 50% of the bufferyard width where all planting and structural requirements of this Part are met and the visual screen provided by the bufferyard will be fully achieved and the retention/detention facility meets the Visual Amenity Standards of Chapter 60, Subdivision and Building Site Design. Underground stormwater retention/detention facilities may encroach without limit into bufferyards, provided all tree requirements are met and that the planting of trees is designed such that tree roots will not hinder the function of the underground facility.
Figure 7. Reserved
Figure 8. Table of Bufferyard Requirements
Use this table to determine the bufferyard required between abutting land uses. The letter designations in this table refer to bufferyard standards in Figure 9.
EXPAND Intensity Class of Abutting Use Intensity Class of Proposed Use I II III IV V VI I ** ** ** B* C* D* II A ** A B* C* D* III B A ** ** ** ** IV B B A ** ** ** V C C B ** ** ** VI D D C B B **
*A bufferyard is only required where the existing abutting Class IV, V or VI has no bufferyard or an insufficient bufferyard. No bufferyard required abutting vacant land.
**No bufferyard required.
Figure 9. Bufferyard Requirements and Options
Figure 9 (Cont.). Bufferyards Using Existing Trees
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
2F. - ONE-FAMILY AND TWO-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 60.223. - One-Family and Two-Family Residential Development Standards.
All landscaping improvements and modifications must conform to the below requirements. Landscaping upgrade to the below standards is required for new development or upon substantial enlargement of an existing property; in such cases, the Building Official shall not issue a Certificate of Occupancy until compliance is achieved. During the permitting process, the requirements of this section shall be noted on the development plan; however this section shall not require the submittal of a separate landscape plan unless required by other provisions in this Code or any other development order.
(a)
Planting Design.
1.
Building Site. Turfgrass shall not exceed 60% of the total pervious area of a building site. The remaining area shall be landscaped with shrubs, groundcovers and annuals, or a combination thereof.
2.
Front Yard. At least 40% of the pervious area of the front and street sideyards shall be landscaped with shrubs and groundcovers, or a combination thereof. The remainder may be planted with turfgrass, annuals and vegetable gardens, up to a maximum of 60%.
3.
Plant Selection. Permanent landscape plants shall be selected based on appropriateness to site conditions such as soil type, moisture, and sunlight. Suggested references are Florida Friendly Landscaping (Florida Yards and Neighborhoods program of the University of Florida), St. Johns River Water Management District Waterwise Landscape Database and the Approved Plant List (Figure 12). It is highly recommended that vegetable gardeners take a course from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Services (UF/IFAS) to plant a successful garden for Orlando's unique climate.
4.
Exotic Plants. Exotic Plants. No plants listed as invasive exotic species under Florida Statutes [section] 581.091, or as Category I invasive exotic species by the Florida Invasive Species Council (FISC) shall be installed.
5.
Mulch. No cypress mulch is allowed.
6.
Non-Vegetative Materials. Stone, gravel, artificial turf and rock beds may be used as an accent, but shall not be considered permanent landscaping, and does not meet the intent of this code when a substantial portion of the landscape is non-vegetative material.
(b)
Street Trees. Street trees shall be required in accordance with Chapter 60, Part 2D. Street trees shall not be counted toward meeting the on-site tree requirement.
(c)
On-Site Trees. Each one-family or two-family lot shall have canopy trees (with a minimum 2-inch caliper each) planted or retained as follows:
1.
A minimum of 2 canopy trees for lots 6,000 square feet or less.
2.
A minimum of 3 canopy trees for lots between 6,001 and 10,000 square feet.
3.
A minimum of 4 canopy trees for lots between 10,001 square feet to 14,000 square feet.
4.
A minimum of 6 canopy trees for lots between 14,001 square feet to 20,000 square feet.
5.
A minimum of 9 canopy trees for lots between 20,001 and 43,560 square feet (1 acre).
6.
A minimum of 12 canopy trees for each acre for lots greater than 1 acre.
7.
For duplex or tandem building site lots less than 10,001 sq. ft. at least one of the required canopy trees must be in the front yard. For duplex or tandem building site lots equal to or greater than 10,001 sq. ft., at least two of the required canopy trees must be in the front yard.
On-site trees shall not be removed below the above minimum standards to establish vegetable gardens, landscape improvements, or site improvements, unless otherwise replaced.
(d)
Preserved Trees. Each existing healthy tree with a canopy spread larger than 800 square feet that is preserved, other than trees listed by the FISC as an invasive or exotic species, shall count as 2 of the required trees.
(e)
Substitute Trees. Each required canopy tree may be substituted by 3 palms (with clear trunks of at least 7' above grade) or 2 understory trees; however, a minimum of 1 canopy tree shall be planted or retained for each 6,000 square feet of lot area.
(f)
Irrigation Systems. Landscape irrigation systems are not required on one-family and two-family lots.
If installed, irrigation systems shall meet the requirements of Part 2I.
(g)
Waterfront Swales. Any development abutting a water body (including natural water bodies and wet retention ponds) shall provide a planted pollution-control swale or other landscape feature approved by the Zoning Official, upland of the normal high-water elevation, along the entire length of the waterfront. The swale shall be designed as follows:
1.
The swale shall be a minimum of 6-feet in width.
2.
Turfgrass and non-native ornamental plants shall not be planted closer than 10-feet from the normal high water elevation.
3.
The swale and littoral area shall be planted with native and native aquatic plants covering 75% of the area.
[(h)
Reserved.]
(i)
Front Yard Structures. No structure in the front or street side yard shall be greater than four feet in height. Temporary items are limited to 5-feet in height. However, the Zoning Official may authorize a single decorative gate arbor or similar structure with a footprint of less than twelve square feet in area, with a maximum height of eight feet, to intersect with a pedestrian pathway in the front or street side yard. The Zoning Official may also authorize an increase of the footprint of front yard structures up to twenty square feet through a Modification of Standards.
All accessory structures and other items (including, but not limited to swimming pools, decks, hydroponic gardens, above ground aquaculture, coops, sheds, play equipment, storage and composting bins) shall not be placed in the front and street side yards and must conform with any other requirement of the Land Development Code.
(j)
Maintenance Requirements. All areas shall be kept free of weeds, debris and litter. All planting materials shall be well maintained in a healthy growing condition. Overgrowth, diseased or dead plant materials shall be removed and replaced. No landscape materials shall block or impair sidewalks, driveways, pathways and address signs, nor block appropriate sightlines for driveways as required by the City Engineer.
Additional landscape maintenance requirements:
1.
Drainage. Landscape improvements and any subsequent grading shall not have adverse drainage impacts to neighboring properties or rights-of-way.
2.
Clear Area. Side yards shall have a minimum 3-foot clear area that provides an improved surface or is planted with mulch, turf or groundcover to allow for emergency access around the principal structure.
3.
Buffers. A minimum three-foot permanently planted buffer (no annuals, tender perennials or vegetable gardens) shall be planted at the neighboring property lines in front and street side yards, unless a fence is installed at the neighboring property line for the entire length of the front or street side yard.
4.
Rights-of-Way. No vegetable gardens are allowed in the public rights-of-way.
5.
Cultivation. If a front or street side yard vegetable garden is fallow or not actively cultivated for a period of three months, it shall be landscaped with permanent plantings from the Approved Plant List, other annual plantings or turfgrass, or a combination thereof.
6.
Edge Treatment Required for Vegetable Gardens. Vegetable gardens in the front or street side yards must incorporate one of the following edge treatments along public rights-of-way:
a.
A fence, 3 to 4 feet in height.
b.
A planter box enclosed on all sides, setback minimum of 18-inches from rights-of-way.
c.
A 3-foot permanently planted buffer (no annuals or tender perennials).
d.
Other landscape feature approved by the Zoning Official (swale, rain garden, etc.) that contains soil and water on the building site.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207; Ord. No. 2017-17, § 7, 4-10-2017, Doc. #17041012; Ord. No. 2021-48, § 3, 8-23-2021, Doc. #2108231203; Ord. No. 2021-49, § 1, 8-23-2021, Doc. #2108231204)
2G. - SITE SPECIFIC PLANTINGS AND MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS[4]
Footnotes: --- (4) ---
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2021-49, § 1, adopted August 23, 2021, changed the title of Part 2G to read as set out herein. Formerly, Part 2G was entitled "Non-Residential and Multifamily Landscaping Requirements".
Sec. 60.224. - Artificial Turf.
The use of artificial turf is permitted subject to obtaining a permit from the Permitting Division and compliance with the provisions of this Section. All artificial turf shall, at a minimum, be installed according to the manufacturer's specifications and may be subject to further City stormwater requirements.
(a)
Location. The installation of artificial turf is permitted on residential, private parks and schools, commercial sites and limited to play areas of public parks and institutions subject to the requirements of this Section. Installation of artificial turf within public and private rights-of-way is prohibited. Artificial turf may not be installed within 50 feet of any artificial or natural water body. Within Historic Preservation Districts, artificial turf may not be installed where it is visible from any rights-of-way; further, a minor Certificate of Appropriateness is required when applicable. Artificial turf is prohibited within drainage features (e.g. retention ponds, swales, and etc.) Artificial turf must be installed outside of the drip line of any tree.
(b)
Impervious Surface Ratio. The installation of artificial turf shall be calculated as an impervious surface, as the intent of the Landscape Code is the installation of living, sub-tropical materials on pervious areas of the site. Total impervious area calculations shall be submitted with any artificial turf application. The quantity of artificial turf to be incorporated into the landscaping of a property shall be limited by the maximum impervious surface ratio (ISR) for the subject property within the applicable zoning district and location requirements above.
(c)
Appearance. Artificial turf shall consist of materials that appear natural in appearance and color from any public or private rights-of-way, neighboring properties or natural features (wetlands, lakes, parks, common areas etc.) Other generally accepted colors will be reviewed by the Appearance Review Officer. The use of indoor/outdoor plastic or nylon carpeting as an installation of artificial turf is prohibited.
(d)
Maintenance. All artificial turf shall be maintained in a fadeless condition and shall be kept free of dirt, mud, stains, weeds, debris, tears, holes and impressions, Maintenance shall include, but not be limited to: cleaning, brushing, debris removal; repairing of depressions and ruts to maintain a visually-level surface; elimination of any odors, flat or matted areas, weeds, and evasive roots; and all edges of the artificial turf shall not be loose and must be maintained with appropriate edging or stakes.
All artificial turf must be replaced if it falls into disrepair with fading, holes or loose areas. Replacement and repairs shall be done with like materials from the same manufacturer and done so in a manner that results in a repair that blends in with the existing artificial turf.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207; Ord. No. 2021-49, § 1, 8-23-2021, Doc. #2108231204)
Sec. 60.225. - Design.
(a)
Plant Selection. All plants used to meet the requirements of this Part shall be selected from the Approved Plant List, Figure 12, or as approved by the Zoning Official if sufficient documentation that the plant possesses the characteristics required is provided with the permit application. The Approved Plant List includes botanical and common names, Spacing Category for trees, mature height and canopy spread, growth habit, soil requirements, wind resistance for trees, soil moisture requirements, and general cultural notes. Recommended additional references for plant cultural characteristics are provided by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Services (UF/IFAS) and the St. Johns River Water Management District Waterwise landscaping references or its successor.
1.
Plants (except prohibited species) which are not listed in the Approved Plant List or approved by the Zoning Official may be used but shall not be eligible to receive points toward meeting the minimum number of points required for permit approval.
2.
Plants listed as Category I invasive exotic species by the Florida Invasive Species Council (FISC) are prohibited species and shall not be installed. Existing Category I invasive exotic plants shall be removed from the site. Additionally, no landscape plan shall incorporate prohibited invasive exotic plant species as described in section 581.091, Florida Statutes. Plants listed in the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services rule, Chapter 5B-57, Florida Administrative Code shall not be used.
3.
Plants listed as Category II invasive exotic species by FISC are not prohibited but are ineligible to receive points in the Non-Residential and Multifamily Landscape Worksheet.
4.
In order to absorb and slow stormwater runoff, and to mitigate erosion, wind-borne dust, heat gain, and noise, at least 45% of new trees shall be evergreen or semi-deciduous (example: live oak).
5.
Plants shall be grouped according to site conditions and water needs, as follows:
High Water Use Zone: Plants which are associated with moist soils and require supplemental water in addition to natural rainfall to survive. This zone includes most turfgrass areas.
Moderate Water Use Zone: Plants which survive on natural rainfall with supplemental water during seasonal dry periods. Bahiagrass turf is considered moderate water use.
Low Water Use Zone: Plants which survive on natural rainfall without supplemental water.
6.
Solar orientation for plants must be considered. Plants with similar cultural requirements (such as soil and climate) shall be grouped together.
(b)
Street Trees. Street trees shall be provided in accordance with Chapter 60, Part 2D.
(c)
Tree Spacing. The Spacing Category is based on root zone, height, and canopy, and shall be used to describe minimum spacing of installed trees. Minimum spacing distance between two trees shall be the radius of the Category of one tree added to the radius of the Category of the other. Figure 10 depicts the minimum spacing of trees of like and different Spacing Category. Existing trees to be retained are exempt from the minimum required spacing. However, installed trees shall be planted no closer to existing trees than the Spacing Category allows. For example, a new persimmon tree (Category 'C') should be planted no closer than 23 feet to a live oak (Category 'A').
Figure 10. Tree Spacing Categories
(d)
Turfgrass. Turfgrass areas shall not exceed 60% of the landscape area (sports fields, golf courses, and stormwater management retention/detention ponds, swales or other stormwater management systems shall be excluded from this calculation). The Landscape Plan shall label the use of turf areas, turf species and varieties, and the total turf area of the site indicated as a percentage of the landscape area. Turfgrass shall not be placed on slopes exceeding 4:1, and shall not be placed within 10 feet of a natural water body, except where needed for erosion control.
(e)
Mulch. A layer of organic mulch to a minimum depth of 2" shall be specified on the landscape plans in plant beds and around newly installed individual trees. Cypress mulch shall not be used.
(f)
Utilities and Infrastructure. All existing and proposed overhead and underground utilities shall be shown on the landscape plan.
1.
Installed trees shall be planted no closer to overhead electric transmission lines than prescribed by the National Electric Reliability Council (NERC). This shall mean that the projected canopy spread of the tree at maturity (as indicated in the Approved Plant List) shall not be closer to the electric transmission line than ten feet.
2.
Installed trees shall be planted no closer to overhead electric distribution lines than depicted in Figure 11, based on tree species Spacing Categories; except that trees which do not exceed a natural mature height of 25 feet may be installed underneath overhead electric distribution lines.
Figure 11. Minimum Tree Planting Setbacks from Overhead Electric Distribution Lines
(g)
When a landscape plan is required, soil analysis shall be required for all building sites more than 0.5 acre. The plants selected shall be appropriate to the soil pH, amount of organic matter and other factors resulting from the soil analysis. The soil analysis must be based on random sampling and must be performed by a commercial soil testing lab or University of Florida/IFAS Cooperative Extension facility. The soil analysis must include soil texture, percentage of organic matter, pH levels, total soluble salts, and estimated soil infiltration rate.
1.
Existing horticulturally suitable topsoil shall be stockpiled and re-spread during final site grading. Any new soil required shall be similar to the existing soil in pH, texture, and permeability, unless evidence is provided indicating that a different soil amendment is justified.
2.
The use of solid waste compost as a soil amendment is encouraged.
(h)
Street Corner Visibility. All landscaping at the intersections of streets and driveways shall comply with the street corner visibility and driveway sight distance requirements of the Orlando Engineering Standards Manual (ESM) and Chapter 61 of Orlando City Code. If the project abuts a Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) roadway, the landscaping shall meet the requirements of the FDOT Manual of Uniform Minimum Standards for Design, Construction and Maintenance for Streets and Highways (as revised from time to time). Drivers' clear sight distance lines shall be shown on the landscape plans.
(i)
All vegetated areas to be preserved shall be shown on the plans.
(j)
Professional Design. Required landscape plans for sites greater than ½-acre in size shall be prepared and submitted by a Florida-registered landscape architect. One-family and two-family residential projects are exempt from this requirement.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207; Ord. No. 2021-48, § 4, 8-23-2021, Doc. #2108231203)
Sec. 60.226. - Littoral Zone Landscaping.
(a)
Aquatic Plantings. Development sites abutting natural surface water bodies, including natural creeks, rivers, ponds, lakes, sinkholes, or wetlands which do not have existing, viable littoral zones, shall be planted with appropriate native aquatic plants as shown in the Approved Plant List, Figure 12 (or other aquatic plants approved by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Aquatic Plant Management, and by the City of Orlando Streets and Drainage Division) along at least 75% of the littoral zone, in a band at least 10 feet in width, or as required by the Zoning Official. Wetlands comprised of native plants preserved in their natural state shall not require additional Littoral Zone landscaping. Wet stormwater detention systems shall have littoral zones planted in accordance with Florida Administrative Code Chapter 40C-42.
(b)
Waterfront Swales. Development abutting a natural water body shall provide a planted upland pollution-control swale along the entire length of the waterfront.
(c)
Other Requirements. All requirements of Chapter 63, Environmental Protection, Surface Water Bodies & Wetlands, shall also apply.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.227. - Screening of Utilities and Refuse Containers.
(a)
Above Ground Utilities. Above ground utilities (including fuel tanks) over 8 square feet in size (height × width of the largest side of the utility equipment) shall be vegetatively screened. The vegetative screening shall be installed on at least 2 sides of the utility equipment, and located outside any fence as required by the Orlando Urban Stormwater Management Manual (OUSWMM) or Engineering Standards Manual (ESM). Access to utility equipment for maintenance, security surveillance or repairs shall be provided. Screening for utility service areas in the right-of-way shall be installed by the utility company or the person who installed the service. This requirement may be waived by the Zoning Official if screening will inhibit safety, accessibility and maintenance. Electric power poles, electric transformers, electric switchgear and traffic signal equipment shall be exempt from the screening requirement.
(b)
Refuse Containers. Front end loading refuse containers shall be screened according to Chapter 58.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
2H. - NON-RESIDENTIAL AND MULTIFAMILY LANDSCAPE WORKSHEET
Sec. 60.228. - Non-Residential and Multifamily Landscape Worksheet.
Applicability. All landscaping on non-residential and multifamily sites shall be designed, installed, and maintained in conformance with this Part and shall meet the minimum points required at time of new development, substantial improvement or enlargement, or change of use to a higher intensity class.
Tree Point Requirements. Where a project has a requirement for tree points, tree points shall be calculated to be equal to the following: 1 tree point = 1 installed tree, minimum 10'—12' ht., and 2" caliper. An existing retained tree greater than 4" in caliper (dbh) shall be equal to 3 tree points.
(a)
Purpose. The Non-Residential and Multifamily Landscape Worksheet is intended to yield an attractive yet environmentally sustainable landscape that promotes economic vitality and civic beauty. The standards provided in the Non-Residential and Multifamily Landscape Worksheet are intended to encourage the design and installation of landscape materials that minimize demand for water, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and fuel without sacrificing visual appeal.
(b)
Landscape Plan Review. All landscape plans must achieve the Minimum Required Landscape Score (MRLS) required for the proposed type and intensity of development. Applicants shall submit a completed copy of the Non-Residential and Multifamily Landscape Worksheet with the application for landscape plan approval. Conformance with the minimum standards of this Section shall be required prior to the issuance of a site development permit.
(c)
Determining Compliance with the MRLS. Compliance with the MRLS is determined as follows:
1.
Determine the Development Factor for the project from the following table: EXPAND Development Type Floor Area Ratio Dwelling Units per Acre Development Factor Office, Commercial, and/or Mixed-Use Less than 0.75 N/A 0.4 Office, Commercial and/or Mixed Use 0.75 or more N/A 0.3 Multifamily N/A Less than 24 du/acre 0.4 Multifamily N/A 24 du/acre or more 0.3 Industrial All N/A 0.3 Planned Development (PD) All All Add 0.05 to applicable score noted above
2.
Calculate the MRLS by multiplying the Site Area (in square feet) times the Development Factor.
3.
Compare the proposed landscape plan to the criteria provided for applicable Landscape Point Categories (below).
4.
Determine Project Landscape Points available for each Landscape Point Category. Project Landscape Points are awarded for achieving criteria provided for each Landscape Point Category, based on the formulas provided. Points are not required in every Landscape Point Category. Individual plants are eligible for points in multiple categories. For example, Indian Hawthorn (Raphiolepis indica) may be awarded points under Category 6b (Small Shrub), Category 6d (Drought-Tolerant or Native Plants), and Category 6e (Flowering Shrub). Plants installed in permanent immobile planters are eligible for points. Plants installed in portable planters are not eligible for points.
5.
Determine the Project Landscape Score by calculating the sum of all points from each Landscape Point Category.
6.
Compare the Project Landscape Score to the MRLS. The Project Landscape Score must equal or exceed the MRLS.
(d)
Landscape Point Categories. Landscape points may be awarded for conformance to the following Landscape Point Categories:
1.
Irrigation. Points may be awarded if irrigation system includes at least one of the following:
a.
A functioning evapotranspiration (ET) weather-based irrigation controller; or low-volume irrigation system for 75% of the irrigated area. Points available are 4% of Minimum Required Landscape Score (MRLS).
Points Available = MRLS × 0.04.
b.
Soil-Moisture Sensors. At least one functioning soil-moisture sensor is provided per micro-climate type. Points available are 3% of Minimum Required Landscape Score (MRLS).
Points Available = MRLS × 0.03.
c.
Rainwater harvesting used as water source for irrigation. To receive points, applicant must submit calculations demonstrating volume of water required and volume provided by rainwater harvesting. Points available are up to 10% of the MRLS.
Points Available = (MRLS × 0.10) × (Annual Harvested Water Volume ÷ Annual Irrigation Volume Required).
d.
Approved landscaping with no permanent in-ground irrigation system. Points available are 10% of the MRLS. Plan must include provisions for watering plants until they are established. Plan must be approved by the Zoning Official, including means of temporary irrigation.
Points Available = MRLS × 0.10.
2.
Existing Trees. Points may be awarded for existing trees retained and preserved (which are not listed as Category I or II invasive exotic plant species by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council). Only trees of 6" or greater diameter at breast height (dbh, 4.5 above the ground) on the development site (and not part of a larger tract, parcel, or preserved wetland) may be counted. Points are calculated as follows:
a.
By measuring the diameter at breast height (dbh) in inches, and multiplying the total number of inches (of all trees) times 40 square feet; and multiplying that by a factor of 1.5.
b.
Relocated trees (see Sec. 60.215) may be counted as existing individual trees.
3.
New Trees. Points may be awarded for installed trees of at least 2" caliper (including street trees installed in the public right-of-way abutting the property if they are rated as having moderate or high wind resistance). Calipers of newly installed trees up to and including 4" in diameter shall be as measured 6" above the ground, and 12" above the ground for larger trees.
Points are calculated as follows:
a.
Understory Trees (min. height of 8 feet) or Palm Trees (min. clear-trunk height of 8 feet):
Points Available = # of Trees × 200 square feet × 0.4.
b.
Canopy Trees (2-inch to 3.5-inch caliper):
Points Available = # of Trees × 800 square feet × 0.5.
c.
Canopy Trees (greater than 3.5-inch caliper):
Points Available = # Trees × 800 square feet × 0.9.
d.
Flowering Trees, Fruit Trees and Nut Trees:
Points Available = # of Trees × 200 square feet × 0.1.
e.
Wind Resistance. Points may be awarded if all installed canopy trees have moderate or better wind resistance as shown in Figure 12, Approved Plant List. Points available are 1% of the MRLS.
Points Available = MRLS × 0.01.
4.
Tree Diversity. To promote biodiversity, points may be awarded for having multiple species of trees. Both preserved trees and installed trees may be counted.
a.
Different cultivars of a species shall not be counted as a different species.
b.
Points available are 0.5% of the MRLS.
Points Available = # of Tree Species × (MRLS × 0.005)
5.
Turfgrass. Turfgrass shall not exceed 60% of the landscaped areas, excluding stormwater management areas, sports fields, golf courses, and park spaces.
Points Available for Argentine Bahiagrass = Turf Area (in square feet) × 0.1.
Points Available for all other turfgrasses = Turf Area (in square feet) × 0.05.
6.
Ground Covers and Shrubs. Perennial plants, groundcovers and shrubs may be awarded points for sustainable characteristics. Plants listed as Category I or II invasive exotic plants by Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council are not eligible for points. Points are calculated as follows:
a.
Ground Covers. Eligible ground covers are listed in Figure 12, Approved Plant List.
Points Available = area of ground cover in square feet × 0.4.
b.
Small Shrubs. "Small Shrub" shall mean any plant identified as a Small Shrub in Figure 12, Approved Plant List. Plants listed as Grasses that do not naturally exceed 3' in height may also be counted as Small Shrubs. Proposed plants and existing plants to be preserved are eligible for points.
Points Available = # of Plants × 5 sq. ft. × 0.4.
c.
Medium and Large Shrubs. "Medium Shrub" and "Large Shrub" shall mean any plant identified as a Medium Shrub or Large Shrub in Figure 12, Approved Plant List, or any similar plant that naturally exceeds 3' in height at maturity. Grasses and bamboo that exceed 3' in height may be counted as Shrubs. Proposed plants and existing plants to be preserved are eligible for points.
Points Available = # of Plants × 16 sq. ft. × 0.4.
d.
Drought-Tolerant or Native Plants. "Drought-Tolerant Plant" shall mean any ground cover, small shrub, medium shrub, large shrub, vine, or grass listed in Figure 12, Approved Plant List, as having high drought tolerance; and "Native Plant" shall mean any ground cover, small shrub, medium shrub, large shrub, vine, or grass listed as a Florida native plant in the Approved Plant List. Native plants not listed therein will be accepted if they are recognized by the Florida Native Plant Society to be native to Central Florida, and shall include cultivars of those species. Plants which are native to Florida but are not naturally occurring in Central Florida may be counted as native plants only with the approval of the Zoning Official. Proposed plants and existing plants to be preserved are eligible for points.
Points Available = # of Plants × 10 sq. ft. × 0.3.
e.
Flowering Plants and Butterfly/Hummingbird Plants. "Flowering Plant" shall mean any plant generally recognized as having conspicuous flowers, as listed in the Figure 12, Approved Plant List. "Butterfly/Hummingbird Plant" shall mean any plant recognized as a nectar source for butterflies or hummingbirds, or as a host/larval plant for butterflies, as listed in Figure 12, Approved Plant List.
Points Available = # of Plants × 10 sq. ft. × 0.1.
f.
Plant Diversity. "Plant Diversity" shall mean the use of multiple species of plants other than trees. Hybrids or cultivars of the same species shall not be considered to be different species. Points are available for the number of species multiplied by 0.25% of the MRLS.
Points Available = # of Species × (MRLS × .0025)
7.
Green Roofs. "Green Roof" shall mean a building rooftop with plant cover growing in a minimum of 4" of soil. Permanent planters built into the rooftop structure may be counted. Potted plants shall not be counted.
Points Available = Area (in square feet) × 0.8.
8.
Vegetative Screens and Walls. "Vegetative Screen or Wall" shall mean a plane of vegetation trained for growth on an exterior wall or fence. The wall or fence may be a building exterior wall, freestanding wall, retaining wall, or metal fence. Wood fences shall not be counted for this credit. Plants may be trained to grow directly on the wall or by vining onto a screen or mesh attached to the wall. Area to be counted shall be the area that the plants may reasonably be expected to grow to cover.
Points Available = Vertical Surface Area (in square feet) × 0.5.
9.
Landscaping of Water Bodies and Stormwater Management Ponds.
a.
Landscaping along natural water bodies, including creeks, rivers, ponds, lakes, and sinkholes, shall have upland pollution-abatement swales and shall meet the minimum requirements provided in Section 60.226, Littoral Zone Landscaping.
b.
Upland Buffers. "Upland Buffer" shall mean an area of native plants upland of any natural water body or retained wetlands. Upland buffer area (retained or installed) must be a minimum of 25 feet in width along at least 75% of the adjacent edge to a natural water body.
Points Available = MRLS × 0.02.
c.
Landscaping of Dry Detention Ponds. "Dry Detention Pond" shall mean any artificial stormwater management basin designed to detain stormwater for a short period of time and that is normally dry between rain events. Landscaping to be awarded points shall include only non-turf areas in the bottoms of ponds or on slopes.
Points Available = Bed Area (in square feet) × 0.3.
d.
Landscaping of New Wet Detention Ponds. "Wet Detention Pond" shall mean any artificial stormwater management basin designed to constantly contain water. Points may be awarded for new ponds if the pond meets the planted littoral zone requirements of Florida Administrative Code Chapter 40C-42. Points equal to 2% of the MRLS are available.
Points Available = MRLS × 0.02.
e.
Landscaping of Existing Wet Detention Ponds. Artificial wet ponds existing prior to new construction on the site may be awarded points if at least 75% of the wet pond edge is landscaped with multiple types of native aquatic plants and trees in a band at least 6 feet in width. Points equal to 2% of the MRLS are available.
Points Available = MRLS × 0.02.
f.
Underground Stormwater Management. Provide 75% or more of the stormwater retention or detention storage volume required in underground structures. Points available are equal to 5% of the MRLS.
Points Available = MRLS × 0.05.
g.
Offsite Stormwater Management.
Provide 75% or more of the stormwater retention or detention storage volume required in offsite shared basins. Points equal to 2% of the MRLS are available.
Points Available = MRLS × 0.02.
h.
Rain Gardens. "Rain Garden" shall mean a depression or bioretention zone located to catch stormwater, and landscaped with plants (other than turfgrasses) that thrive in alternately dry and submerged conditions. Drainage swales or ditches shall not be considered to be rain gardens. The limited use of stones and similar materials may be incorporated into the rain garden.
Points Available = Bed Area (in square feet) × 0.5.
10.
Hardscape. Permeable pavements are eligible for points.
a.
Permeable Pavement. "Permeable Pavement" shall mean an at-grade exterior pavement which allows percolation of water to the soil below, and shall include pervious concrete, paving units designed to allow percolation, and other surfaces approved by the City Engineer.
Points Available = Permeable pavement area (in square feet) × 0.6.
11.
Food Cultivation. "Food Cultivation" shall mean the provision of any plants recognized as perennial plants that produce food edible to humans. Fruit and nut trees, shrubs, vines, perennial vegetables, and perennial herbs may be counted. Mature canopy spread for trees and shrubs may be counted; the surface area coverage of garden areas or small plants may be counted. Annual food plants may be counted if located in an area dedicated and set aside for continuous gardening.
Points Available = Area (in square feet) × 0.1.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207; Ord. No. 2021-49, § 1, 8-23-2021, Doc. #2108231204)
2I. - LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 60.229. - Compliance.
(a)
Exceptions. A landscape irrigation system shall be required for all newly installed landscape areas except for the following:
1.
One-family and two-family residential lots.
2.
Retained landscape areas that are pre-existing, including trees, shrubs, turf areas, native plant communities and established natural vegetation.
3.
Landscapes incorporating Florida Friendly design principals and designed for high drought-tolerance, when approved by the Zoning Official. Provisions for temporary irrigation or manual watering for plant establishment shall be required.
(b)
Design Standards. All new irrigation systems installed must meet the minimum design standards described herein.
1.
Automatic irrigation systems shall comply with the Florida Statutes and all applicable building codes. Watering times shall comply with the appropriate water management district requirements.
2.
Automatic irrigation systems must be equipped with a functional rain sensor device placed in unobstructed locations free to capture rain water from the sky. The backup battery in the timer or controller should be replaced annually unless it is a constantly recharging battery. Technology required elsewhere in this part shall also be functioning.
3.
The irrigation system shall be appropriate to specific site conditions. Slopes of 10% or greater shall be identified on the plans.
4.
The irrigation plan shall show point of connection, pressure at point of connection, water meter size, reduced pressure backflow prevention devices, major components (pumps, filters, valves, spray heads, pipe sizes and lengths), precipitation rates and run times for each valve circuit, total flow in gallons per minute, legend of all equipment (with relevant specifications), recycled/reclaimed-water piping as applicable, locations of rain sensors and soil-moisture sensors, and high, medium and low water use zones.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.230. - Irrigation Water Sources.
(a)
Stormwater Ponds. The use of water from artificial stormwater ponds shall be encouraged as a source of irrigation water, provided usage will not significantly degrade the pond as a site amenity. Developments seeking to use water from retention ponds or from natural water bodies shall be evaluated by the Zoning Official on a project-by-project basis, and shall comply with all requirements of the appropriate Water Management District. Stormwater ponds used for irrigation shall not be recharged with wells or potable water.
(b)
Rain-Harvesting Systems. The use of rain-harvesting systems as water sources for irrigation is encouraged. Such systems include rooftop collection for storage in rain barrels or cisterns and are eligible for points in the Non-Residential and Multifamily Landscape Worksheet.
(c)
Reclaimed Water. If a permanent in-ground irrigation system is installed, reclaimed water shall be used if a source is determined to be available by the City Engineer. However, it shall not be eligible to receive points in the Non-Residential and Multifamily Landscape Worksheet.
(d)
Potable Water Sources and Wells. Potable water sources and wells are permitted as irrigation sources.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.231. - Irrigation Design.
Irrigation system plans and specifications shall identify the proposed equipment, materials and the methods of construction.
(a)
General Requirements.
1.
Turfgrass. Irrigation zones for turfgrass areas shall be separate from irrigation zones for tree, shrub and ground cover beds. It is encouraged that turf be placed on a separate watering program.
2.
Trees. Flood bubblers are preferred for newly installed on-site trees, and required for street trees in new subdivisions or any non-residential site until the trees is established for a minimum of two years.
3.
Shrubs and Ground Covers. The use of low-volume, emitter, multi-trajectory rotating stream nozzles, or target irrigation is preferred for shrubs and ground covers.
(b)
Equipment.
1.
Controllers.
a.
One-family and Two-family Lots. One-family and two-family residential irrigation systems shall incorporate either evapotranspiration (ET) weather-based controllers; soil-moisture sensors and controllers; or an automatic controller that can be annually programmed for monthly variations in water requirements.
b.
Multifamily and Non-Residential Development. Evapotranspiration weather-based controllers, or soil-moisture sensors are required on automatic irrigation systems which use potable water or wells as the water source on all multifamily and non-residential sites equal to or greater than 0.50 acres. Sites less than 0.50 acres may opt to utilize an automatic controller that can be annually programmed for monthly variations in water requirements or a greater water saving technology. Where soil-moisture sensors are used to satisfy these requirements, at least 1 sensor shall be used for each different watering need or microclimate zone in the landscape. For example, if the landscape has 2 areas of ground cover in full sun and 1 in shade, 2 soil-moisture sensors are required.
2.
Flow Sensors. Flow sensors and master valves with a controller capable of monitoring flows (or other leak-detection equipment) shall be required on irrigation systems for multifamily and non-residential developments greater than 5 acres in size. Irrigation heads with built-in water shut-off devices are encouraged.
3.
Spray Heads. All irrigation spray heads shall incorporate pressure-compensating nozzles. Rotary heads and fixed pattern spray heads shall not be installed in the same zone.
4.
Check Valves. Low-lying areas near water bodies and areas with poor drainage shall have heads with check valves.
5.
Impact Sprinklers. Impact sprinklers shall not be permitted, except for sports fields, parks, agricultural uses and golf courses.
6.
Water Velocity. Application rates for all sprinklers and emitters shall be matched within each irrigation zone, but water velocities shall not exceed 5 feet per second.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
Sec. 60.232. - Installation and Operation.
(a)
Coverage. Irrigation coverage shall not exceed head-to-head coverage.
(b)
Piping. Installed piping systems shall be free from leakage.
(c)
Overthrow. No significant irrigation overthrow shall be allowed onto impervious surfaces or buildings.
(d)
Proximity to Buildings. To minimize termite, rot, and mildew potential, irrigation heads shall not be located within 2 feet of any building; however, drip and micro-irrigation systems may be utilized in this area.
(e)
Maintenance and Operation. All irrigation equipment shall be operated in accordance with the individual system guidelines and maintained in good working order to prevent leaks and wasteful or unnecessary use of water. Irrigation runoff and overspray shall be minimized.
(f)
Operating Instructions. Written operating instructions shall be provided to the property owner, or affixed inside or adjacent to the controller, with information to include irrigation schedules, controller handbook, zone diagram and location of soil moisture sensors if applicable. Instructions for proper reprogramming of controllers in the event that service is disrupted shall be included.
(g)
Repair. Broken or misdirected irrigation spray heads, irrigation system leaks, and other irrigation system malfunctions shall be repaired upon discovery or within five business days of delivery of written notification by City, County, or State personnel to the address where the problem occurs.
(h)
Watering Restrictions. Watering restrictions and schedules for times, days, volumes, and run times shall be as specified by the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD). Variances from SJRWMD watering restrictions, if needed for the optimum functioning of water-conserving sensors and controls, such as soil-moisture sensors and weather-based evapotranspiration (ET) controllers, must be obtained as needed from SJRWMD.
(i)
Inhibiting or Interrupting Devices. In accordance with Florida Statutes, a licensed contractor who installs or performs work on an automatic irrigation system must: Test for the correct operation of each inhibiting or interrupting device and switch on the system. If such devices are not installed, or are not functioning properly, the contractor must install new devices or repair the existing ones and insure that each is operating properly before completing other work on the system;
Regular maintenance and replacement of worn or broken moisture sensing equipment, such as soil-moisture sensor or rain sensors, is not a violation if such repairs are made within thirty days from the time non-compliance is noted.
(j)
Licensing of Contractors Performing Work on Irrigation Systems. All contractors performing work on irrigation systems shall be licensed or registered under chapter 489, Florida Statutes, or hold a county or municipally-issued license or business tax receipt that permits work on irrigation systems.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
2J. - LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION STANDARDS
Sec. 60.233. - General Requirements.
The property owner, occupant and/or agent shall be jointly and individually responsible for installing landscaping, using plant materials of species which are native or adapted to the Orlando area.
(a)
Existing Plant Material. The Zoning Official may adjust the application of standards contained herein to allow credit for existing healthy plant material on a building site to be retained during and after development.
(b)
Protection. Landscaped areas shall be protected from vehicular encroachment with effective wheel stops or curbs.
(c)
Anchoring. Wherever newly installed trees with calipers of 2" or greater are installed they shall be anchored to maintain the tree in a vertical upright position for a period of at least 1 year, to provide sufficient time for roots to become established. Single staking of new trees with calipers of 4" or greater shall be prohibited.
(d)
Tree Health. Trees used to satisfy the requirements of this Part shall be in good health. A determination as to the health of trees need not be made in advance of their use; however, poor tree health may be established at any point during the development process in either of the following ways:
1.
The applicant may claim poor tree health as a reason to remove an existing tree which would otherwise be required to be retained. To do so, the applicant shall submit an expert evaluation by a certified arborist, landscape architect, horticulturalist, urban forester or other expert as part of his or her tree removal permit application.
2.
The Zoning Official may claim poor tree health as a reason for disallowing a new or existing tree in satisfying the requirements of this Part. The applicant may rebut such a claim by submitting an expert evaluation by a certified arborist, landscape architect, horticulturalist, urban forester or other expert to the Zoning Official, who shall make a final determination. If the expert evaluation recommends recuperative measures to improve tree health, the Zoning Official may condition the retention of the tree upon these measures, and may reassess the health of the tree after a 1-year recuperation period.
(e)
Minimum Planting Areas for Installed Trees. The minimum planting areas for all installed trees shall be as follows:
1.
On-Site Trees.
a.
Canopy trees: 5.0' radius from center of tree.
b.
Understory trees: 2.5' radius from center of tree.
c.
Palms: 1.0' radius from edge of tree.
2.
Street Trees.
a.
Canopy trees: 7.5' or greater parkway width:
No special requirements.
5' to less than 7.5' parkway width:
Root barriers (24" depth, 12 feet in length) required adjacent to curb and sidewalk.
Less than 5' parkway width:
Root barrier (24" depth, 12' in length) required adjacent to curb. Structural soil or root tunnels required underneath sidewalk.
b.
Understory trees: 5' or greater parkway width:
No special requirements.
Less than 4' parkway width: Root tunnels or structural soil required underneath sidewalk.
(f)
Waiver of Minimum Planting Area for Installed Trees. To allow for dense urban development, such as plazas with tree wells and grates, the minimum planting area may be waived by the Zoning Official if special design techniques, such as the use of structural soil, soil cells, root tunnels, and root barriers, are incorporated.
(g)
Plant Quality. Grass sod shall be reasonably free of weeds and noxious pests or disease. All installed plant materials shall be graded Florida #1 or better as outlined under current Grades and Standards for Nursery Plants, Division of Plant Industry, State of Florida. All plants not listed shall conform to a Florida No. 1 or better as to: health and vitality; condition of foliage; root system; freedom from pest or mechanical damage; and heavily branched and densely foliated according to the accepted normal shape of the species.
(h)
Berms. When a berm is used to form a visual screen, its slopes shall not exceed 3:1, and it shall be completely covered with shrubs, grass or other living ground cover.
(i)
Ground Covers. Ground covers shall be planted in a manner so as to present a finished appearance with reasonably complete coverage under normal growing conditions within 12 months after planting. All improved and disturbed property in the City, including residential, shall have ground cover or turfgrass installed and maintained in those areas not otherwise planted with landscaping or covered by structures or pavement.
(j)
Turfgrass. Turfgrass shall be of a species adapted to Central Florida. Turf may be sodded, plugged, sprigged or seeded except that solid sod shall be used in swales or other areas subject to erosion.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
2K. - PARKING LOT LANDSCAPING
Sec. 60.234. - General Requirements.
Parking lots shall be landscaped to meet the requirements of Chapter 61 - Part 3B, describing layout and spacing of parking lots and driveways, landscape areas, islands, planters, and strips.
Figure 12. Approved Plant List
EXPAND Botanical Name Common Name MatureHeight MatureSpread GrowthHabit SpacingCategory ElectricLineOffset SoilMoisture DroughtTolerance WindResistance NATIVE CANOPY TREES Acer rubrum Red Maple 30'—60' 40' Upright B 15' Wet or Dry Medium Poor Deciduous; red fall foliage, preferred cultivars Florida Flame and Summer Red. Betula nigra River Birch 40'—50' 25'—40' Upright, angular B 15' Wet or Moderate Low Moderate Deciduous; yellow fall foliage; distinctive bark; good wildlife value; needs acidic soil. Carya glabra Pignut Hickory 60'—80' 20'—30' Upright A 20' Well-drained High Moderate Deciduous; edible nut; gold fall foliage. Carya ovata Shag Bark 60'—80' 25'—35' Upright A 20' Well-drained High Moderate Deciduous; may be the best ornamental hickory due to open branching habit and shaggy bark. Celtis laevigata Hack- berry, Sugar- berry 50'—70' 50'—70' Rounded Vase A 20' Varied Low Moderate Deciduous; food source for birds; tolerates root disturbance, good parking lot & street tree. Fast grower. Edible nuts. Fraxinus caroliniana Carolina Ash 40' 20' Rounded Narrow A 20' Moist to Wet Medium Poor Deciduous; multi-trunked. Fraxinus pennslyvanica Green Ash 60'—70' 40'—45' Upright, oval A 20' Varied Medium Poor Deciduous; abundant seed set; seedless cultivars are available; rapidly growing tree; large surface roots can develop. Liquidambar styraciflua Sweetgum 60'—75' 30'—50' Upright A 20' Moist, Well-drained High Moderate Deciduous; red fall foliage; spiny burrs a problem when tree overhangs pedestrian areas (fruitless cv. 'Rotundiloba' may avoid this problem); aggressive surface roots. Liriodendron tulipifera Tulip Tree 80'—120' 25'—40' Pyramidal A 20' Moist, Well-drained Medium Moderate Deciduous; yellow-orange flower. Magnolia grandiflora Southern Magnolia 60'—80' 30'—40' Upright, pyramidal A 20' Varied Medium Excellent Evergreen; large, white, fragrant flowers in late spring. Cultivars Bracken's Brown Beauty, D. D. Blanchard, Chloe, Claudia Wanamaker. Nyssa sylvatica Black Gum 65'—75' 25'—35' Pyramidal to Oval B 15' Moist to Wet High Moderate Also known as BlackTupelo & Sour Gum; deciduous; fall color. Pinus clausa Sand Pine 60'—80' 15'—40' Pyramidal B 15' Well-drained High Poor Evergreen. Sand pines tend to lean, use with caution near structures. Fire resistant. Pinus elliotti Slash Pine 60'—100' 30'—60' Upright, open B 15' Varied High Moderate Evergreen; long needles; lower limbs shed with age. Pinus palustris Longleaf Pine 60'—80' 30'—40' Upright, irregular B 15' Varied High Moderate Evergreen. Platanus occidentalis Sycamore 75'—90' 60'—70' Pyramidal to rounded A 20' Varied Medium Moderate Deciduous; prone to leaf scorch, lace bugs and anthracnose problems; aggressive surface roots. Not recommended in constricted urban conditions. Quercus geminata Sand Live Oak 30'—90' 30'—60' Spreading B 15' Well drained, sandy High Excellent Semi-deciduous. Grows smaller, more upright and open-crowned than Q. virginiana. Named for habit of bearing acorns in pairs and for its sandy habitat. Varies in height, 20'—30' in a coastal or scrub habitat and 30'—90' inland. Quercus hemispherica Laurel Oak 65'—100' 40' Upright A 20' Well-drained Medium Poor Prone to heart rot; good wildlife value. Quercus laevis Turkey Oak 20'—30' 15'—20' Upright B 15' Well-drained, sandy High Excellent Deciduous; fall color. Quercus michauxii Swamp Chestnut 60'—80' 30'—50' Narrow rounded A 20' Moist Low Excellent Deciduous; fall color. Quercus nuttalii Nuttall Oak 60'—80' 40'—50' Upright A 20' Varied Medium Moderate Similar in nature to the Shumard Oak, the Nuttall Oak grows faster and is well suited for wet sites. Quercus shumaraii Shumard Oak 60'—80' 40'—50' Upright A 20' Varied High Moderate Deciduous; fall color; good Laurel Oak substitute; fast grower; tolerates high pH. Quercus virginiana Live Oak 60'—80' 60'—120' Spreading A 20' Varied High Excellent Semi-deciduous; spreading oak, durable; life span into centuries; good street tree; disease resistant. Cultivars Cathedral and High Rise. Taxodium ascendens Pond Cypress 60'—80' 15'—30' Upright B 15' Dry to Wet High Excellent Deciduous; wildlife value. Taxodium distichum Bald Cypress 60'—80' 15'—30' Upright B 15' Dry to Wet High Excellent Deciduous; wildlife value. Ulmus alata Winged Elm 40'—70' 30'—40' Rounded to Vase A 20' Dry to Wet High Moderate Deciduous; distinctive winged characteristic of bark. Wildlife value, good nesting tree. NON-NATIVE CANOPY TREES Carya illinoinensis Pecan 60'—100' 40'—60' Broad, oval A 20' Moist to well-drained High Moderate Deciduous; edible nut; long lived. Cupressus sempervirens Italian Cypress 40'—60' 5'—15' Columnar C 10' Well-drained High Poor Evergreen; very prone to mites and canker. Ginkgo biloba Ginkgo 50'—60' 30'—60' Irregular, spreading A 20' Dry to Moist High Excellent Deciduous; species is 150-million years old yet extinct in the wild; pest free; yellow fall foliage. Liquidambar formosana Oriental Sweetgum Formosa 40'—60' 30'—45' Pyramidal to rounded A 20' Well-drained Medium Moderate Deciduous; red, yellow fall foliage; AKA Formosan Gum; 3 lobed leaf. Salix alba White Willow 45'—70' 45'—70' Rounded, Upright B 15' Moist to Wet Medium Poor Semi-deciduous; graceful form; aggressive roots; salt tolerant fast grower but short life span. Ulmus parvifolia "Allee" Allee Elm 40'—50' 35'—50' Upright, oval to vase A 20' Well-drained High Poor Deciduous; distinct exfoliating bark (lace bark), resistant to Dutch Elm Disease; other varieties are Drake and Bosque. NATIVE UNDERSTORY TREES* Amelanchier arborea Service- berry 10'—25' 15'—20' Round, upright C None Well-drained Medium Moderate Good for naturalistic plantings. Asimina triloba Paw Paw 15'—20' 15'—20' Round to irregular C None Well-drained High Moderate Good for naturalistic plantings and slope stabilization. Carpinus caroliniana American Hornbeam 20'—40' 20'—40' Upright, oval B 15' Moist to Wet Medium Excellent Deciduous; yellow to red fall foliage; will not tolerate alkaline soil. Cercis Canadensis Redbud 20'—30' 15'—20' Upright, oval C 10' Moist to Dry High Poor Deciduous; showy magenta flowers in early spring; yellow fall color. Chionanthus virginicus Fringetree 10'—20' 10'—15' Rounded C None Well-Drained Medium Moderate Deciduous; showy, white, fragrant flowers in early spring; wildlife value. Cornus florida Flowering Dogwood 20'—30' 15'—25' Rounded B 15' Well-Drained Medium Excellent Deciduous; showy white flowers in early spring; "Weaver" best for Central Florida. Crataegus marshalli Parsley Hawthorn 15'—25' 10'—15' Upright vase C None Moist to Wet High Moderate Edible fruit; wildlife value; ornamental parsley like foliage. Crataegus opaca Mayhaw 15'—30' 15' Oval C 10' Moist to Wet High Moderate Edible fruit; deciduous; wildlife value; densest of all Crataegus species. Diospyros virginiana Persimmon 30' 20'—25' Rounded C 10' Moist to Wet High Excellent Deciduous; edible fruit after first year; good wildlife value; fruit attracts mammals and may cause messy litter. Gordonia lasianthus Loblolly Bay 30'—40' 10'—20' Narrow, conical B 15' Moist to Wet Low Excellent Evergreen; white fragrant flowers in late spring; grows best in partial shade (understory and edge of forest tree). Halesia diptera Silverbell 20'—30' 10'—20' Pyramidal vase C 10' Well-drained Low Moderate Container or above-ground planter; patio or deck; specimen; understory street tree. Ilex cassine Dahoon Holly 25'—30' 10'—15' Upright, dense C 10' Varied Medium Excellent Evergreen; red berries; wildlife value. Ilex decidua Possum Haw 10'—15' 10'—15' Rounded vase C None Varied Medium Moderate Deciduous; stabilizes banks; patio tree. Ilex vomitoria Yaupon Holly 15'—20' 15'—20' Rounded vase C None Varied High Excellent Evergreen; very adaptable to sites and pH; 'Pendula' is weeping form. Juniperus silicicola Southern Red Cedar 30'—40' 20'—30' Conical to open B 15' Varied High Moderate Evergreen; fine needles, dense foliage, fast growth, good buffer plant; very adaptable; wildlife value. Juniperus virginiana Eastern Red Cedar 40'—50' 10'—25' Oval to pyramidal B 15' Varied High Moderate Evergreen; windbreak and screen; wildlife value. Magnolia grandiflora x "Little Gem" Little Gem 20'—40' 15'—20' Upright, Pyramidal C 10' Well-drained Medium Excellent Evergreen; large, white, fragrant flowers inlate spring. Magnolia virginiana Sweetbay 40'—50' 15'—25' Columnar or rounded vase B 15' Moist to Wet Medium Excellent Semi-evergreen; white showy fragrant flowers in summer. Malus angustifolia Southern Crabapple 20'—25' 20'—25' Rounded C 10' Moist to Dry High Moderate Deciduous; fragrant pink flowers in spring; wildlife value. Osmanthus americanus Devilwood 15'—25' 10'—15' Vase C None Varied Medium Moderate Fragrant spring bloom: good hammock and street tree. Ostrya virginiana Eastern Hophorn- beam 30'—40' 25'—35' Oval, rounded B 15' Varied High Excellent Deciduous; wildlife value; good form and attractive orange to grayish brown bark; fall color; tolerant of poor soil. Oxydendron arboreum Sourwood 25'—35' 25'—35' Pyramidal B 15' Varied Medium Moderate Deciduous; fragrant white raceme flowers in spring and summer, specimen tree with branches that droop toward the ground forming a graceful outline. Prunus angustifolia Chickasaw Plum 20'—25' 10'—20' Rounded C None Varied not Wet High Moderate Early spring bloom; white showy flowers; deciduous tree; salt tolerant; wildlife value; can be weedy. Prunus umbellatta Flatwoods Plum 15'—20' 15'—20' Rounded C None Varied not Wet Medium Excellent Deciduous tree; white showy flowers late winter to early spring; low salt tolerance; wildlife value. Quercus chapmanii Chapman Oak 20' 20' Rounded B None Varied High Excellent Shrubby oak; best on sandhill and coastal area. Quercus incana Bluejack Oak 20' 30' Rounded B None Varied High Excellent Attractive blue green foliage. Quercus myrtifolia Myrtle Oak 15'—35' 15'—30' Rounded C 10' Varied High Excellent Shrubby oak; oak scrub, pine flatwoods to sandy ridge; short lived; wildlife value. Quercus stellata Sand Post Oak 20'—40' 15'—25' Irregular B 15' Varied High Excellent Slower growing of the white oaks; ultimate drought resistant tree; gnarled 'hangmans' tree in xeric settings. Rhamnus caroliniana Buckthorn 15'—20' 10'—15' Oval, upright C None Varied Medium Moderate Colorful fruit; can be weedy; wildlife value. Salix caroliniana Coastal Plain Willow 30' 20'—25' Round, spreading B 15' Wet Medium Poor Small deciduous or shrub-like tree; efficient for erosion control along lakes and streams. NON-NATIVE UNDERSTORY TREES Citrus spp. Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit 15' 20' Spreading B None Well-Drained Medium Moderate Evergreen; many varieties; fragrant white blossoms in spring; prone to 'greening' disease. Some species being evaluated for invasiveness. Cupressocyparis leylandii Leyland Cypress 25'—35' 15'—25' Columnar C 10' Varied Medium Poor Evergreen; very prone to canker. Diospyros kaki Japanese Persimmon 20'—30' 20' Round, upright C 10' Varied Medium Moderate Excellent fruiting tree for ornamental use and makes an excellent specimen. Elaeocarpus decipiens Japanese Blueberry 25'—35' 10'—15' Upright, narrow B 15' Well drained Medium Moderate Excellent screening or buffer, good street tree. Small white flowers with small deep blue fruit. Leaves have bronze-red color on new growth; good replacement for East Palatka holly. Eriobotrya japonica Loquat 20'—30' 30'—35' Round, vase B 15' Varied Medium Moderate Evergreen; edible fruit. Ilex x attenuata 'Eagleston' Eagleston Holly 20'—25' 6'—10' Columnar, Pyramidal C None Moist Medium Excellent Evergreen; good substitute for 'East Palatka' Holly. Lagerstroemia indica Crape Myrtle 10'—30' 15'—25' Vase C None Varied High Excellent Deciduous; many cultivars available; select by mature height before color. Ligustrum japonicum Waxleaf Privet 10'—15' 15'—20' Oval, round B None Varied High Moderate Specimen tree in landscape. Magnolia soulangeana Saucer Magnolia 10'—15' 10' Vase C 10' Varied Low Poor Specimen; needs protection from afternoon sun; prone to scale. Magnolia stellata Star Magnolia 10'—15' 10' Vase C None Varied Medium Poor Specimen; needs protection from afternoon sun; prone to scale. Parkinsonia aculeata Jerusalem Thorn 15'—20' 20'—25' Vase, spreading B None Varied High Excellent Needle-like leaves; yellow flowers; good for xeric site. Prunus campanulata Taiwan Flowering Cherry 20'—30' 15'—20' Rounded, vase B 15' Varied Medium Moderate Best flowering cherry for deep south; showy pink flowers; prone to shot hole fungus in summer. Tabebuia spp. Trumpet tree 25'—35' 25'—35' Oval, round B 15' Varied High Poor Deciduous; showy pink or yellow flowers in spring. PALMS AND CYCADS Bismarkia nobilis Bismark Palm 30'—60' 10'—20' Upright Palm C 10' Varied High Excellent Solitary massive palm with blue-green foliage to bronze-green with a slight red edge. Drought tolerant with no major pests. Butia capitata Pindo Palm 15'—25' 10'—15' Upright Palm D 8' Varied High Excellent Graceful green/blue to silver foliage; fruit can be made into jelly. Chamaerops humulis European Fan Palm 10'—15' 10'—15' Cluster Palm D 8' Varied High Excellent Clustering palm; palmate with deeply dissect fronds; green, blue-green or silvery green fronds; slow growing. Cycas circinalis Queen Sago 10'—20' 10'—15' Palm-like D 8' Varied High Moderate Graceful fronds; not cold hardy. Livistonia chinensis Chinese Fan Palm 30'—50' 5'—10' Upright Palm D 8' Varied High Excellent Slow growing; good alternative to Washingtonia robusta. Sabal causiarum Hat Palm 50' 10'—15' Upright Palm D 8' Varied High Excellent Solitary, imposing palm with massive trunk. Drought tolerant. Pest problems are leaf hoppers and susceptible to ganoderma. Sabal palmetto Cabbage Palm 30'—80' 10'—15' Upright Palm D 8' Varied High Excellent State tree of Florida; heart of palm is edible, known as "swamp cabbage." Native. Phoenix canariensis Canary Island Date Palm 40'—60' 15'—25' Upright, long fronds C 10' Varied High Excellent Large, stately palm; needs ample room; heavy feeder. Use with caution; susceptible to disease. Phoenix reclinata Senegal Date Palm 25'—30' 10'—20' Upright, long fronds C 10' Varied High Excellent Multi-trunk palm with graceful, arching fronds. Phoenix dactylifera Date Palm 60'—100' 15' Upright, long fronds C 10' Varied High Excellent Edible fruit. Use with caution; susceptible to disease. 'Medjool' is preferred. Trachycarpus fortunei Windmill Palm 20'—40' 5'—10' Upright, short fronds D 8' Varied Medium Moderate Dense fibrous trunk with fan shaped fronds; slow grower. Washingtonia filifera Desert fen palm Califonia fan & Petticoat palm 50' 10'—15' Upright Palm C 10' Varied High Excellent Solitary robust palm unlike the Mexican Washintonia it does not get as tall but the trunk is much thicker. No major pest problems but susceptible to Phytophthora bud rot.
EXPAND Botanical Name Common Name FloridaNative Mature HeightX Spread Soil Moisture DroughtTolerance Large Shrubs Acacia farnesiana Sweet Acacia Y 10'—25' × 15'—25' Well—Medium Drained High Yellow flowers all year; thorny; provides seeds/cover for birds. Aralia spinosa Devil's Walkingstick Y 10'—25' × 6'—10' Well—Medium Drained Medium Small white flowers in spring-summer, purplish berries used by wildlife; spiny stems. Ardisia escallonioides Marlberry, Marbleberry Y 10'—21' × 3'—12' Well—Medium Drained High Fragrant white flowers all year; purple fruits used by wildlife; no pest problems. Baccharis halmifolia Groundsel Tree, Sea Myrtle, Salt-bush Y 8'—12' × 6'—12' Well—Medium Drained Medium White flowers in fall; poisonous seeds. Bauhinia galpinii Red Orchid N 8'—10' × 8'—10" Well—Medium Drained High Dense broad shrub, red-orange orchid bloom summer into fall. Bougainvillea spp Bougainvillea N Varies × Varies Well-Drained High Year round color produced by bracts, various colors and foliage available. Calliandra spp. and cvs. Powderpuff N 10'—15' × 8'—15" Well-Drained High Hummingbird plant; pink/white flowers in spring-fall. Camellia japonica Camellia N 10'—20' × 10'—20' Medium-Drained Medium Popular shrub used in borders and in formation hedges, specimen plants and for colorful accents. Many cultivars, flowers in winter-spring. Camellia sasanqua Sasanqua Camellia N Varies × Varies Medium-Drained Medium Showy fragrant flowers in fall-spring, likes acidic soil, evergreen, low salt-tolerance. Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Fastigiata' Japanese Plum Yew, Harrington Plum Yew N 4'—8' × 3'—5' Well-Drained Medium Upright with strong vertical growth. Attractive with bright green spring-growth, very slow grower. Does well in semi-shade to shade. Columnar shape. Cestrum aurantiacum Orange Jessamine N 10' × 8' Well-Drained Medium Yellow-orange flowers in spring-summer; poisonous. Cocculus laurifolius Laurelleaf Snailseed, Carolina Coralbead, Cocculus N 12'—18' × 18'—20' Well-Drained to Medium-Drained High Yellow flowers; poisonous leaves. Crataegus spp. Hawthorn Y Varies × Varies Well-Drained to Wet High Good food source for wildlife; good cover for nesting. Cyrill racemifolia Titi, Swamp Cyrilla, Leatherwood Y Varies × Varies Medium-Drained to Wet Medium White flowers in late spring-summer; wetland plant; attractive to bees. Duranta erecta Golden Dewdrop, Pigeonberry, Skyflower N 10'—18' × 10'—15' Well-Drained High Evergreen: lavender/blue/white flowers in summer-fall and showy golden fruit; thorny; wildlife value. Eugenia spp. Stoppers Y 10'—30' × 5'—20' Well-Drained High Evergreen large shrub or small tree, flowering in spring, summer, fruit maturing in autumn. Hamamelis virginiana Common Witchhazel Y 15'—30' × 15'—25' Well-Drained Low Cream/yellow flowers in fall. Naturally occurs farther north, needs cooler temperatures; use with caution. Hamelia patens Firebush; Scarletbush Y 5'—20' × 5'—8' Well to Medium- Drained Medium Orange/red flowers, esp. summer; mites, whiteflies; scales; butterfly and hummingbird plant. Heptaplleurum arboricolum Dwarf Schefflera N 20'—15' × 6'—15' Well to Medium- Drained Medium Also known as Schefflera arboricola. Good variegated cultivar is 'Trinette'. Hibiscus spp. Hibiscus, Mallows Y Varies × Varies Well to Medium- Drained Medium Showy blooms in many colors; damaged in freezes. Hydrangea macrophylla Hydrangea, Bigleaf Hydrangea, French Hydrangea N 6'—10' × 6'—10' Well to Medium- Drained Medium White/pink/purple flowers in spring-summer; pest sensitive; deciduous. Hydrangea quercifolia Oakleaf Hydrangea Y 6'—10' × 6'—8' Well to Medium- Drained Medium White/cream flowers in summer, good flowering shrub for shade. Ilex x 'Mary Nell' Mary Nell Holly Y 10'—20' × 10' Well to Medium- Drained Medium Dense leathery dark green foliage makes an excellent screening hedge. Fruit attracts wildlife, many cultivars; important pollen source for bees. Ilex cornuta and cultivars Chinese Holly, Horned Holly N Varies × Varies Well-Drained High Dense leathery dark green foliage makes an excellent screening hedge. Fruit attracts wildlife, many cultivars; important pollen source for bees. Illicium floridanum Florida Anise Y 10' × 5'—8' Well-Drained Medium Broad-leaved evergreen shrub with a compact stature. The leaves are leathery, smooth and shiny and when crushed, they emit a characteristic anise-like odor. Purplish red star like flowers. Illicium parviflorum Yellow Anise Y 15'—20' × 10'—15' Well-Drained to Wet Medium The yellow anise is the perfect low maintenance shrub. Conical form that doesn't require much pruning and it is seldom bothered by insects or disease. Better adapted to Central Florida than I. floridanum. Juniperus chinensis and cultivars Chinese Juniper, Japanese Juniper N Varies × Varies Well-Drained High The bushy cultivars undipped hedges and anchors for foundation plantings. Nicks compacta. Blue Vase, Spartan and Hetzi are acceptable culitivars. Ligustrum japonicum and cultivar Ligustrum, Japanese Privet N 8'—12' × 15'—25' Well-Drained High Sturdy plant with attractive leaves, evergreen with white flower in summer. "Jack Frost" is good variegated variety. Loropetalum chinense Loropetalum, Chinese Fringe Bush N 8'—10' × 6' × 8' Well-Drained Medium White/pink flowers in spring; no major pest problems. Both Bugundy and Ahu-shou. Lyonia ferruginea Rusty Lyonia Y 10'—25' × 5'—10' Well to Medium- Drained High White-pink fragrant flowers in spring. Rust-colored new growth. Murraya paniculata Orange Jessamine N 8'—12' × 8'—15' Well-Drained High White-fragrant flowers all year; pest sensitive; attracts wildlife. Musa spp. Banana N 7'—30' × 10'—15' Wet Low Edible fruit; fast growth; watch for Sigatoka leaf spot disease. Frost sensitive. Myrcianthes fragrans Simpson's Stopper, Twinberry Y 6'—30' × 15'—20' Well-Drained to Wet High An attractive medium to large shrub with peeling rust-colored bark. Culitivars such as Simpsons has excellent fruit. Osmanthus americanus Wild Olive Devilwood Y 15'—25' × 10'—15' Well-Drained to Wet Medium Slow growing evergreen shrub or small tree with white, very fragrant flowers in fall-spring; fruit for wildlife. Osmanthus fragrans Tea Olive, Fragrant Olive, Sweet Osmanthus N 10'—12' × 10'—14' Well-Drained Medium Slow growing evergreen shrub or small tree with white, very-fragrant flowers in fall-spring. Other medium sized species are x fortunei and heterophyllus. Philodendron x cvs Philodendron N Varies × Varies Well-Drained to Wet Medium The leaves are usually large, often lobed or deeply cut. Can also be oval, spear-shaped, or many others. Cultivars used such as Evansii and Williamsii. Philodendron selloum Split leaf or Tree Philodendron N 6'—12" × 10'—20' Well to Medium- Drained Medium Grows as a large semiwoody shrub with enormous glossy leaves and a single erect unbranched stem that tends to fall over and sprawl when the plant gets large. Pittosporum tobira cultivars Pittosporum N 8'—12' × 12'—18' Well-Drained High Broadleafed evergreen shrub; leathery glossy green leaves are arranged alternately in a whorl around the stem. Compact cultivar "Louisiana Compacta' Podocarpus macrophyllus Podocarpus N 30'—40' × 20'—25' Well-Drained High No serious pest problems; high wind resistance. Rhododendron cultivars Azalea Y Varies × Varies Well-Drained Medium Among the most common woody flowering shrub in the southeast, with many shapes, sizes and flower colors: cultivars G.G. Gerbong, Formosa, George Tabor & Southern Charm. Rhododendron austrinum Florida Flame Y 6'—10' × 4'—8' Well-Drained Medium Native azalea, yellow orange fragrant flowers in spring, select disease resistant varieties. Rhododendron canescens Piedmont or Pinxter Y 8'—12' × 6'—10' Well-Drained Medium Native azalea with pink/white fragrant flowers in spring, found along stream banks. Strelitzia nicolai Giant Bird-of-Paradise, White Bird of Paradise N 20'—30' × 15'—20' Medium-Drained Medium Blue-white flowers all year, fast growth; frost-sensitive. Tecoma stans Yellow Elder, Yellow Trumpetbush N 20' × 15' Well-Drained Low Yellow flowers in summer to winter; may die to the ground in north FL and return in the spring. Ternstroemia gymnathera Cleyera, Ternstroemia N 12'—20' × 5'—10' Well to Medium Drained Medium White fragrant flowers in spring; good as hedge. Tibouchina urvilleana Princess Flower, Glory Bush, Lasiandra N 10'—15' × 10'—15' Well-Drained High Also known as Tibouchina semidecandra; purple flowers all year. Viburnum obovatum Walter's Viburnum Y Varies × Varies Well-Drained High White flowers in winter-spring; small black fruit used by many birds; good nesting cover. Excellent hedge plant. Viburnum odoratissimum Sweet Viburnum N 15'—30' × 15'—25' Well-Drained Medium White flowers in spring; susceptible to leaf spots, powdery mildew, and downy mildew; no major insect problems, but watch for aphids and scales; often grown as a hedge; thins in shaded sites. Viburnum odoratissimum var. Awabuki Awabuki Viburnum N 15'—20' × 15'—20' Well-Drained Medium Also known as Viburnum awabaki; white flowers in spring; good under power lines - takes well to pruning. Viburnum rufidulum Rusty Blackhaw, Southern Blackhaw Y 20'—25' × 20'—25' Well to Medium Drained High Fall color (scarlet-purple); large cluster of small white flowers in spring; small black fruit used by many birds; tolerates occasionally wet soil. Vitex agnua-castus Chaste Tree N 10'—20' × 10'—20' Well-Drained High Purple flowers in summer, attracts wildlife. Yucca aloifolia Yucca, Spanish Bayonet Y 3'—12' × 3'—6' Well-Drained High White flowers in spring to summer. Medium Shrubs Abelia X grandiflora Glossy Abelia N 6'—10' × 6'—10' Well-Drained Medium Pink/White Flowers in spring-fall; no pest problems; doesn't flower in shade. Acca sellowiana Pineapple Guava, Feijoa N 8'—15' × 8'—15' Well-Drained High Also known as Feijoa sellowiana. Acrostichum danaeifolium Leather Fern, Giant Leather Fern Y 4'—8' × 3'—5' Medium-Drained to Wet Low Large fern; good for wet sites in shade. Agarist populifolia Pipestem, Fetterbush, Doghobble Y 8'—12' × 5'—10' Well-Drained to Wet Medium White, fragrant flowers in spring. Agave decipiens Century Plant False sisal Y 5' × 5' Well-Drained High Used more as an accent plant. Spiny leaves. Allamanda Schotti Bush Allamanda, Bush Trumpet N 5'—15' × 4'—10' Well-Drained Medium Yellow flowers all year; no pest problems. Alpinia zerumbet Shell Ginger N 6'—12' × 3'—5' Well-Drained Low Herbaceous dark green foliage to variegated with white or yellow flowers on canes. Asimina obovata Scrub Pawpaw Y 6'—12' × 4'—6' Well-Medium Drained Medium Medium sized deciduous shrub with large number of flowers in late winter and spring. Fruit matures in late spring. Bougainvillea spp Bougainvillea N Varies × Varies Well-Drained High Year round color produced by bracts, various colors and foliage available. Breynia disticha Snow on the Mountain N 4'—6' × 4'—6' Well to Medium- Drained High Variegated-green, white and pink foliage, excellent shrub or screen. Brunfelsia grandiflora Yesterday-Today-and- Tomorrow N 7'—10' × 5'—8' Well-Drained Medium Lavender/purple/white flowers in spring-fall. Buddleia lindleyana Butterfly Bush, Lindley's Butterfly Bush N 4'—6' × 4' Well-Drained Medium Excellent for butterflies. Callicarpa americana Beautyberry Y 6'—8' × 6'—8' Well-Drained High Attracts wildlife; purple fruits eaten by birds. Calycanthus floridus Carolina Allspice, Eastern Sweetshrub Y 6'—9' × 6'—12' Well to Medium- Drained Medium Red flowers in spring-summer. Naturally occurs farther north; use with caution. Carissa macrocarpa Natal Plum N 2'—20' × 2'—20' Well-Drained High Also known as Carissa grandiflora; white fragrant flowers all year; edible fruit. Cephalanthus occidentalis Buttonbush Y 6'—20' × 6'—8' Medium-Drained to Wet None Flammable...plant 30' min. from bldg.; butterfly and hummingbird plant. Use in wet sites. Cephalotaxus Harringtonia 'Nana' Japanese Plum Yew, Harrington Plum Yew N Varies × Varies Well-Drained Medium A low, spreading shrub that sends up suckers, forming a thicket. Chionanthus pygmaeus Pygmy Fringetree Y 6'—12' × 15'—20' Well-Drained Medium White flowers in spring; purple fruits in late summer, attracts birds. Clethra alnifolia Sweet Pepperbush Y 4'—8' × 4'—8' Well-Drained to Wet Medium White, fragrant flowers in summer; attracts bees and other wildlife. Naturally occurs farther north; use with caution. Coccoloba uvifera Seagrape Y 3'—35' × 10'—50' Well-Drained High Fragrant white flowers in spring; edible fruit. Codieaeum variegatum Croton N 3'—8' × 3'—6' Well-Drained Low Colorful foliage; sensitive to pests. Frost-sensitive. Duranta erecta Golden Dewdrop, Pigeonberry, Skyflower N 4'—8' × 6'—8' Well-Drained High A sprawling, sometimes vinelike tender evergreen shrub or small tree. It forms a multi-stemmed clump with branches that droop and trail. Blue tubular flowers with golden berries. Elaeocarpus decipiens 'Little Emperor' Little Emperor N 6'—8' × 6'—8' Well-Drained Medium A compact shrub featuring lush, dark green foliage and bronze new growth. Fragrant creamy-white flowers yield decorative blue-black fruit that will not stain paving. Fatsia japonica Japanese Aralia, Paperplant N 5'—8' × 3'—10' Well-Drained Medium Glossy dark green lobed leaves for deep shade. Tropical appearance. Tolerant of urban conditions. Forestiera segregata Florida Privet Y 4'—15' × 3'—12" Well to Medium- Drained High Yellow flowers in early spring; fruit provides food for wildlife. Galphimia glauca Thryallis, Rain-of-Gold N 5'—9' × 4'—6' Well-Drained Medium Upright fine textured shrub with light green foliage. Showy cluster of yellow blooms all year; no major pest problems. Gardenia jasminoides Gardenia, Cape Jasmine N 4'—8' × 4'—8' Well-Drained Medium Also known as Gardenia angusta; white fragrant flowers in spring-summer; nematodes, scales; use iron fertilizer; requires acid soil. Hamelia patens Firebush, Scarletbush Y 5'—20' × 5'—8' Well to Medium- Drained Medium Orange/red flowers, esp. summer; mites, whiteflies, scales, butterfly and hummingbird plant. Fast grower. Hydrangea macrophylla Hydrangea, Bigleaf Hydrangea, French Hydrangea N 6'—10' × 6'—10' Well to Medium- Drained Medium White/pink/purple flowers in spring-summer; pest sensitive; deciduous. Hydrangea quercifolia Oakleaf Hydrangea Y 6'—10' × 6'—10' Well to Medium- Drained Medium White/cream flowers in summer; good flowering shrub for shade. Itea virginica Virginia Willow, Virginia Sweetspire Y 3'—8' × 2'—4' Well-Drained to Wet Medium White flowers in spring-summer occurs naturally in wet soils. Jasminum multiflorum Downy Jasmine N 5'—10' × 5'—10' Well-Drained Medium White fragrant flowers all year; pest sensitive. Jasminum nitidum Star Jasmine, Shining Jasmine N 3'—5' × 4'—6" Well-Drained Medium Evergreen or semi-evergreen vine or shrub with sweetly fragrant, snow-white, pinwheel shaped flowers. Ilex cornuta 'Burfordii nana' Dwarf Burford Holly N 4'—6' × 4'—6' Well-Medium Drained Medium Dense leathery dark green foliage. 1—3 spines at tip. White spring flowers and abundant red berries. Compact habit great for low hedges. Loropetalum chinese 'Blush' Loropetalum, Chinese Fringe Bush N 6' × 4'—5' Well-Drained Medium Blooms early to mid-season with medium-green to burgundy foliage. Relatively-compact. Myrica cerifera Wax Myrtle Y 10'—20' × 10' Well-Drained Medium Evergreen shrub, may be trained to tree form. Wax from berries was once used in the manufacture of candles. Wildlife value. Susceptible to fungus. Nerium oleander Oleander N 6'—10' × 4'—5' Well-Drained High Fast growing evergreen shrub with showy flowers; many cultivars ranging in height and color. Dwarf varieties include Petite Pink and Petit Salmon. Pittosporum tobira Wheelers Dwarf Pittosporum N 3'—4' × 3'—4' Well-Drained Medium Broadleafed evergreen shrub; dwarf variety that grows to only about 2 feet [in] height called 'Wheeler's Dwarf' Plumbago capensis Plumbago N 3'—10' × 3'—10' Well-Drained Medium Evergreen shrub forming a loose, rounded mound; blooms most of the spring, summer and fall in various shades of blue. 'Royal Cape' has cobalt blue flowers. Rhapidophyllium hystrix Native Lady Palm Y 6' × 6' Moist to Well- Drained Medium Native palm with dense, clumping form on multiple stalks. Rhaphis excelsa Lady Palm N 6' × 6' Moist to Well- Drained Medium Does well in some shade. Dense, clumping form-on multiple stalks. Rhododendron cultivars Azalea Y Varies × Varies Well-Drained Medium Among the most common woody flowering shrub in the southeast, with many shapes, sizes and flower colors. Sabal minor Dwarf Palmetto, Blue-stem Palmetto Y 4'—9' × 4'—8' Well-Drained to Wet High Fruit attracts wildlife in fall. Serenoa repens Saw Palmetto Y 5'—10' × 4'—10' Well-Drained High Good wildlife value. Strelitzia sp Bird of Paradise N 3'—5' × 3' Well-Drained to moist Medium S. reginae (orange) and S. nicolai (white). White Bird of Paradise grows to 25 ft. height. Tabernaemontana divaricata Crape Jasmine, Pin wheel Flower N 6'—10' × 3'—6' Well-Drained Low White fragrant flowers in summer; watch for scales, mites, nematodes, and sooty mold. Thunbergia erecta King's Mantle, Bush Clock Vine N 4'—6' × 5'—8' Well-Drained to Medium Drained Medium Purple flowers all year; used as hedge in south Florida; tough plant; pest resistant; unclipped plants sprawl across the ground. Vaccinium arboreum Sparkleberry Y 6'—25' × 4'—15' Well to Medium Drained Medium White flowers in spring; showy fall colors; attracts wildlife; attracts pollinating insects; tolerates occasionally wet soil. Vaccinium corymbosum Vaccinium myrsinites Vaccinium danrrowii Blueberry Y 1'—12' × 1'—10' Well to Medium Drained Medium White flowers in the spring; black fruit in fall attracts wildlife; edible; prefers moist, well-drained conditions. V. corymbosum available commercially. Viburnum odoratissimum Sweet Viburnum N 8'—12' × 5'—8' Well-Drained Medium Very fast growing evergreen. Viburnum obovatum Walter's Viburnum Y Varies × Varies Well-Drained High White flowers in winter-spring; small black fruit used by many birds; good nesting cover, "Mrs. Sheeler's Dwarf. Viburnum suspensum Sandankwa Viburnum N 6'—12' × 6' Well-Drained Low Evergreen; coarse texture, attractive compact form. Flowers are white with pinkish tints and give way to small round red berries in autumn. Small Shrubs Agave spp. Century Plant Agave Y 2'—4' × 3'—6' Well-Drained High Succulent armed leaves. Species varying in sizes include Agave angustifolia, desmettiana, ferox and geminiflora. Aloe Aloe N Varies × Varies Well-Drained High Choose species adapted to climate; flowers variable; injured by frost in extreme North FL; occasional caterpillars; invasive assessment: Aloe vera assessed and not invasive, others not yet assessed. Allamanda schottii Bush Allamanda, Bush Trumpet N 5'—15' × 4'—10' Well-Drained Medium Yellow flowers all year; no pest problems; makes an open hedge; plants in shade flower poorly. Asimina reticulata Pineland Pawpaw Y 2'—6' Well-Medium Drained Medium Small deciduous shrub flowering in spring and fruit maturing in spring or early summer. Wildlife value. Buxus microphylla Littleleaf Boxwood N 3'—5' Well-Medium Drained Medium Compact evergreen shrub; shallow rooted, short life span due to nematode problems and mites. Caesalpinia Poinciana N Varies × Varies Well-Drained Medium Region depends on species and cultivar. Choose species adapted to climate; flowers variable. Callistemon viminalis Lil John Bottlebrush N 3' × 3' Well-Drained High Compact, mounding dwarf bottlebrush, blooms spring through fall. Cephalotaxus harringtonii 'Prostrata' Crawling Yew N 2'—3' × 4'—5' Well-Drained Medium A broad spreading plant attractive in spring when new growth is pale lime green. Good for filling in under or near larger trees. Shade loving. Very slow growing, 10 years to mature size. Conradina spp. False Rosemary, Scrub Mints, Beach Rosemary Y 1'—3' × 1'—3' Well-Drained High C. canescens is a good choice. Crinum americanum Swamp lily Y 2' × 3' Well Drained- Poorly Drained Medium Year round large fragrant flower, used in aquatic or moist locations. Crinum spp. Crinum lily N 4' × 4' Well Drained Medium Year round large fragrant flower, prone to leaf spot. Gamolepis Bush Daisy N 2'—4' × 3'—4' Well-Medium Drained Medium Herbaceous perennial or sub-shrub that grows in a mound-like bush; yellow daisy like flowers. Hamelia patens compacta Dwarf Firebush Y 3'—5' × 3'—5' Well-Medium Drained Medium Florida native Firebush Hamelia patens has orange-red tubular flowers with hair-like leaves, bloom throughout summer. Butterfly and hummingbird plant. Ilex cornuta "Rotunda" Rotunda Holly N 2'—3' × 3'—4' Well-Medium Drained High Dense leathery dark green foliage with sharp spines make it a good low barrier. Abundant red berries. Ilex vomitoria cvs Dwarf Yaupon Y 3'—5' × 3'—5' Well-Poorly Drained High Dense and compact habit with close-knit branches and brillant maroon new growth, can be brittle. Small greenish, white flowers in spring. Excellent cultivars 'Nana' & 'Stokes Dwarf (Schillings). Ixora X cvs Ixora N 3'—5' × 3'—5' Well-Drained Medium A woody shrub with dark green glossy leaves and colorful flower clusters that bloom year round. Some varieties have pinkish-red, yellow, or white flowers, acid-loving plants, that is pH sensitive and prone to pest. Maui varieties are most reliable. Juniperus chinensis "Parsonii" Parson Juniper N 2'—3' × 4'—7' Well-Medium Drained High Dense long slender branches form evergreen dome shaped mound at maturity. Prone to spider mites. Leucophyllum frutescens Texas Sage, Texas Ranger, Silverleaf N 3'—5' × 3'—5' Well-Drained High Gray-green evergreen shrub with lavender spring flowers; prefers dry, hot, sites. Loropetalum chinense"'Plum Delight" Loropetalum, Chinese Fringe Bush, also known as Pizazz N 3'—5' × 3'—5' Well-Drained Medium A finely textured evergreen shrub, open form with branches arranged in horizontal spreading layers. Blooms are large dark pink flowers with deep burgundy foliage. Lyonia lucida Fetterbush, Shiny Lyonia Y 3'—10' × 2'—5' Well-Medium Drained High White/pink showy flowers in spring; leaf spotting may occur. Podocarpus macrophylla "Pringles" Pringles Dwarf Podocarpus N 3'—5' × 3'—5' Well-Medium Drained Medium Dark green foliage, slow growing, very dwarf, bushy form of podocarpus. It responds well to pruning. Rhaphiolepsis sp. Indian Hawthorn N 2'—10' × 2'—6' Well-Medium Drained High Good informal shrub with dark green foliage, flowers in spring; wildlife food. Common varieties uses are "Indica Alba" and "Elizabeth". Rosa sp Rose Y 1'—20' × Varies Well-Drained Medium Groundcover, shrub or vinelike, color of flowers variable; disease-resistant cultivars available; most roses require high maintenance, with pest and disease problems (thrips, aphids and leaf spot). Rosmarinus officinalis Rosemary N 2'—3' × 3' Well-Medium Drained High Flowers variable; valued perennial spice plant. Russelia equisetiformis Firecracker Plant, Coral Plant N 3'—5' × 6'—12' Well-Drained High Red flowers all year; good container plant; pest sensitive. Russelia sarmentosa Firecracker Plant N 3'—4' × 2'—4' Well-Drained Medium Red flowers in summer to fall; attracts wildlife. Salvia officinalis Sage N 2' Medium A perennial spice plant, good for flavoring meat, vegetable, and dairy dishes Sabal etonia Scrub Palmetto Y 4'—6' × 4'—6' Well-Drained High Flowers in spring-summer, small, black berries in summer-fall; long-lived (likely over 100 years); tolerates hot, dry conditions; endemic to central Florida sand scrub; difficult to transplant. Spiraea Spiraea N 3'—5' × 3'—4' Well-Medium Drained Medium White flowers in spring; invasive assessment; Spiraea cantoniensis, Spiraea thunbergii assessed as not a problem, others not yet assessed. Stromanthe sanguinea "Triostar" Triostar N 3'—4' × 2'—4' Well-Medium Drained Medium Richly variegated foliage that comes in dark pink, white, and green colors. Produces reddish-pink in the spring. Thymus vulgaris Thyme N 18" Well-Drained Medium A perennial spice plant, good for flavoring meat, vegetables, and soup. Yucca filamenitosa Adams Needle Y 2'—3' × 2'—3' Well-Drained High Leaf rosette with wide flower stems 4'—6' tall in spring. Zamia pumila Coontie, Florida Arrowroot, Florida Zamia Y 1'—5' × 3'—5' Well-Drained High Small palmlike perennial plant; evergreen leaves are fine in texture and resemble those of a fern; wildlife value. Zamia maritima (furfuracae) Cardboard plant N 2'—5' × 5'—8' Well-Drained High Palmlike/fernlike evergreen plant with leather like leaves, stiff with pubescent (fuzzy) green leaflets; excellent accent or specimen; can freeze but will come back; seeds and caudex poisonous. Ground Covers Agapanthus africanus Lily of the Nile N ½'—1' × 1'—2' Well-Drained Medium Purple/blue flowers, spring-summer, spreads quickly; cultivars incl. "Peter Pan", "Elaine" and "Elle Mae". Ajuga reptans Bugleweed, Carpetweed N 6"—9" × Varies Moist to Well-Drained Medium Evergreen spring flowering perennial, foliage varies by cultivar, spreads, excellent for erosion control. Arachis glabrata Perennial Peanut N ½' × Varies Well-Drained High Yellow/orange flowers in summer-fall; no nitrogen fertilizer needed; no pest problems; withstands foot traffic and slopes where mowing is difficult. Asparagus densiflora 'myers' Foxtail Fern N 2'—3' × 2' Moist to Well- Drained Medium Finely ridged somewhat spiney upright prefers partial to full shade. Plant in frost-free zone. Aspidistra elatior Cast Iron Plant, Barroom Plant N 1'—3' × 1'—3' Well-Drained High Used for cut foliage; no pest problems: tolerates deep shade. Bromeliad spp Bromeliad N 1'—4' × 2'—4' Well-Medium Drained Medium Smooth or entire leaf margins, unusual foliage markings and colors. Some species produce fragrant flowers. Neoregalia, Guzmania, Tillandsia. Bulbine frutescens Desert Candles N 1'—2' Well High Fleshy green leaves similar to onion leaf blades, creating clumps. Small star-shaped flowers on stalks 2'--3' above foliage in spring through summer. Coppery-orange flowers. Caladium x hortulanum Caladium N 1'—2' × 1'—2' Well-Drained Medium Attractive foliage (red, rose, pink, white, silver, bronze, green); leaves die back in the fall; pest-sensitive. Cyrtomium falcatum Holly Fern N 2' × 3'—4' Well-Medium Drained Medium No major pest problems but watch for scales, mites, mealybugs, snails and slugs: good low-maintenance groundcover in shady sites; evergreen fern. Cuphea hyssopifolia False Mexican Heather N 1'—2' × 2-3' Well-Drained High Purple, white and pink flowers year round, not tolerant of hard freeze, cultivar allyson. Dianella tasmanica variegated Blueberry Flax Lily N 2'—3' × 2'—3' Well-Drained High Evergreen variegated, iris like foliage, a clumping variety. Dietes vegeta African Iris N 2'—3' × 2'—3' Well-Medium Drained Medium White iris like flowers with swordlike foliage, clumping form. Dryopteris spp Autumn Fern Y Varies × Varies Well-Drained Medium Region depends on species - choose species adapted to your area; used as cut foliage. Dyschoriste oblongleaf Twin Flower, Oblong Leaf Snakeherb Y 1' × Varies Well-Drained High Lavender flowers all year. Evolvulus glormeratus ssp. grandiflorus Blue Daze N 1' × 1'—2' Well-Drained Medium Small mounding groundcover with grey green foliage and vibrant blue flowers in spring to summer. Glandularia tampensis Tampa Vervain, Tampa Mock Vervain Y 1'—2' × Varies Well-Drained High Also known as Verbena tampensis; purplish-pink/white flowers in summer; endangered. Hedera helix English Ivy N 1' × 1'—6' Well-Drained Medium Watch for aggressive spread to keep contained: no pest problems; rich groundcover in the shade. Hemerocallis spp Day lily N 1'—3' × 2' Well-Drained Medium Classified evergreen, semi-evergreen and dormant and range from dwarf to tall varieties. Can bloom early spring through late summer. Iris virginica Blue Flag Iris Y 2'—3' × 2'—3' Well-Drained to Poorly Drained Medium Lavender flowers in spring along lake edge does best in fluctuating water zone. Juniperus conferta and cvs. Shore Juniper N 1'—2' × 4'—6' Well-Drained High A low-growing, outward-spreading needled evergreen. The needle color is usually some form of bluish green, turning greenish or bronzy green in winter. Dwarf shore and blue pacific good varieties. Juniperus horizontalis and cvs. Creeping Juniper, Horizontal Juniper N 6" × 8' Well-Drained High Evergreen ground cover with soft, fine-textured plume-like foliage. Long spreading branches, and short twigs that stand upright to form a mat. "Blue Rug" a dependable variety. Lantana camara cvs N 1'—2' × Varies Well-Medium Drained High Low spreading ground cover that is covered with disk shaped flowers throughout the summer. Use ONLY sterile varieties such as Gold Mound, New Gold, Alba. Lantana montevidensis Trailing Lantana N 1'—3' × 4'—8' Well-Drained High White/pink/lavender flowers in summer-fall. Lirope muscari Lily turf N 1'—2' × 1'—2' Well-Medium Drained High Dense clumps of dark green to variegated varieties, purple flowers in the summer, forms solid groundcover. Big Blue and Emerald Goddess excellent varieties. Mimosa stigulosa Sunshine Mimosa, Sensitive Plant, Powderpuff N 6"—12" × Varies Well-Drained to Moist High Perennial vine with pink pom-pom like flowers, can be lawn substitute. Attractive to bees and butterflies. Ophiopogon japonicus and spp. Mondo Grass, Dwarf Lilyturf, Dwarf Liriope N 1' × Varies Well-Drained Medium Dark green fine textured grass-like groundcover, grows well in shade and compacted areas. Variegated variety Rumohra adiantiformis Leatherleaf Fern, Seven Weeks Fern N 1'—3' × 4'—5' Medium-Drained Medium Ideal groundcover for shaded area, dark green leathery fronds form a dense mat of lacy foliage. Trachelospermum asiaticum Small-leaf dwarf jasmine N Varies × Varies Well-Medium Drained Medium Excellent ground cover withstands foot traffic; good for slopes/bank stabilization; no serious pest problems. Tulbaghia violacea Society Garlic N 18"—24" × Varies Well-Drained High Clusters of lavender, sweet scented flowers in early summer through fall. Edible grasslike foliage that smells and tastes like garlic. Flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators. Vinca major Periwinkle N 1'—2' × Varies Well-Medium Drained Medium Blue/purple/lavender flowers in summer; no pest problems; good for shaded, small gardens. Poisonous if ingested. Do not use V. minor, which is invasive. Grasses & Bamboo Andropogon spp. Bluestern Grass Y 3'—10' × 3'—7' Well-Medium Drained High Soil moisture preference depends on species, check with Extension office or nursery before making final selection; silver/white/pink flowers in fall. Aristida stricta var. beyrichiana Wiregrass Y 2'—4' × 2'—3' Well-Medium Drained High Wiregrass is a very important grass that provides food and shelter for wildlife. Strongs flexible, wire-like, thin grass; highly flammable, useful in clearing the surrounding long leaf pine flatwoods. Bambusa spp. Bamboo N Varies × Varies Medium-Drained Medium "Runner" forms of bamboo are invasive and not permitted; use only the "clumping" varieties. Cortaderia selloana Pampasgrass N 10'—12' × 6'—8' Well-Drained High Flammable; in wildfire-prone area, plant min. 30' from buildings; white flowers in summer, sharp-edged leaf. Eragrostis ellicottii Elliot's Lovegrass Y 1' × 1'—3' Well-Medium Drained High Short bunch grass for dry areas; silver leaves and white flowers give it a misty look in the fall. Eragrostis spectabilis Purple Lovegrass Y 1'—3' × 1'—3' Well-Medium Drained High Small red/purple flowers all year, especially fall; grows best in hot, dry sites; does not tolerate wet, shady sites. Muhlenbergia capillaris Muhly Grass Y 2'—5' × 2'—3' Well, Medium, High Drained High Bunch grass with a showy pink plumage in fall; tolerates extreme drought and flooding. Panicum virgatum and cvs. Panic Grass, Switch Grass Y 1'—5' × 1'—5' Well-Drained High Warm perennial grass is native grass to pastures, and naturalized along roadsides. Switchgrass is grown as a drought-resistant ornamental grass in average to wet soils and in full sun to part shade. Paspalum quadrifarium Evergreen Paspalum, Crown Grass N 2'—3' × 2'—3' Well-Drained High Leaf blades are broad under irrigation and roll up when dry. Maintains a dark green foliage all year long. Spartina spp. Cordgrass Y 3' × 3' Well, Medium, High Drained High Showy bunch grass with tan flowers in summer good for mass planting. Tripsacum dactyloides Fakahatchee Grass Y 3' × 4' Wet to Well-Drained Moderate Full sun to light shade; no serious pest problems. Vines Allamanda cathartica Yellow Allamanda N Varies × Varies Well-Drained Medium Yellow flowers all year; all plant parts are poisonous, cultivars Hendersonii (dwarf) & Cherries Jubilee. Aristolochia sp Dutchman's pipe, pipevine Y 10'—15' × Varies Medium-Drained Medium White/purple flowers in summer and winter, larval food plant for pipevine swallowtail butterfly and polydamas butterfly. Do not use A. littoralis (Cat. II invasive). Bignonia capreolata Cross Vine, Trumpet Flower Y Varies × Varies Well-Medium Drained High Trumpet shaped orange flowers in spring, hummingbird attractor, good cultivars include "Tangerine Beauty" and "Shalimar Red". Bougainvillea Bougainvillea N Varies × 15'—40' Well-Drained High Pink/yellow/orange/white flowers all year, esp. winter spring; freezes in parts of central region; invasive assessment: Bougainvillea glabra assessed as not a problem, others not yet assessed. Campsis grandiflora Chinese Trumpet Creeper N Varies × Varies Medium-Drained Medium Deciduous asian counterpart to the native, more refined, less aggressive, less weedy. Cultivars "Morning-Calm", "Madame Galan". Campsis radicans Trumpet Creeper, Trumpet Vine Y Fast—40' × Varies Medium-Drained Medium Orange/red flowers in spring-summer. Clerodendrum x speciosum Java Glory Vine N Varies × Varies Well-Drained High Showy red flower clusters set off by dark green leaves. Clerodendrum thomsoniae Bleeding Heart N Varies × Varies Well-Drained High Flowers in large cluster with white calyx surrounds the red corolla tube. Cultivars 'Delectum' and 'Variegata'. Clitoria trenata Butterfly Pea N Varies × Varies Well-Drained High Well behaved vine that blooms nearly year round, reseeds or rejuvinates from roots. Clytostoma callistegioides Painted Trumpet Vine N Varies × Varies Well-Drained Medium Glossy dark green foliage attractive all year, lavender striped flowers abundant in spring. Combretum aubletii Monkey's brush N Varies × Varies Well-Drained Medium Orange-red flowers in fall to late spring, vigourous climber best on a heavy arbor or trellis. Cryptostegia gandiftora Rubber Vine N Varies × Varies Well-Drained Medium Vigorous long dark glossy green leaves, prolific dark lavender bloom. Cydista aequinoctialis Garlic Vine N Varies × Varies Well-Drained Medium Long funnel-like lavender-pink showy flower clusters, foliage has garlic odor when crushed. Dalechampia dioscoraefolia Bow Tie Vine N Varies × Varies Well-Drained Medium Vigorous grower and bloomer, blooms best with adequate moisture, fuschia colored bracts as wide as 6" across. Decumaria barbara Cowitch Vine, Climbing Hydrangea Y Varies × Varies Well-Medium Drained Low Native deciduous climber with large fragrant flowers, requires water. Ficus pumila Creeping fig N 4" × Varies Well-Medium Drained High Vigorous evergreen climbing vine great for covering walls. Variegated form available. Can be invasive. Gelsemium sempervirens Carolina Jessamine, Yellow Jasmine Y 40' × 20'—30' Well-Medium Drained Low Yellow flowers in late winter to spring; rapid growth; no pest problems; poisonous. Hedera canariensis Algerian Ivy, Canary Ivy N ½'— 1' × 1'—6' Well-Drained Medium Watch for aggressive spread to keep contained: no pest problems: rich groundcover in the shade. Hedera helix English Ivy N 1'—2' × 2'—5' Well-Drained Medium Dark green foliage spreading aggressively, keep contained: poisonous. Ipomoea Morning Glory Y ½' × 10'—75' Well-Medium Drained High Flowers variable; use within a border, can spread easily. Jasminum multiflorum Downy Jasmine N 5'—10' × 5'—10' Well-Drained Medium White, fragrant flowers all year; dies back when cold and comes back: pest sensitive. Lonicera sempervirens Honeysuckle, Coral Honeysuckle Y 10'—15' × Varies Well-Drained Medium Red flowers in spring-summer; relatively pest free: birds feed on fruits. Mandevilla Pink Allamanda, Mandevilla N Varies × Varies Well-Drained Medium Many cultivatars; pink/white flowers all year. Millettia reticulata Evergreen Wisteria N Varies × Varies Well-Drained Low Purple flowers in summer to fall. Passiflora incarnata Maypop, Passion Vine Y 5'—10' × Varies Medium-Drained High Pink/purple flowers in summer-fall; larval food plant of zebra longwing and gulf fritillary butterflies; tolerates occasionally wet soil. Thunbergia alata Black-eyed Susan Vine N 10" × 10' Well-Drained Low Yellow flowers in summer. Trachelospermum jasminoides Confederate Jasmine, Star Jasmine N Varies × Varies Well-Medium Drained Medium White, fragrant, showy flowers in spring: can be aggressive: no serious pests but watch for scales and sooty mold. Vitis rotundifolia Muscadine Grape Y Varies Moist to Well- Drained Medium Deciduous. Fruit is excellent; relatively hardy plant and disease resistant. Requires trellising, pruning. Wisteria frutescens American Wisteria Y 10'—20' × 6'—12' Well-Drained Medium Lavender, fragrant flowers in spring: poisonous parts. Do not use Wisteria sinensis (Cat. II invasive). Aquatic and Wetland Plants Upper Littoral Zone (6" above or below the normal water level) Canna flaccida Golden Canna Y 2'—3' tall Moist Not applicable Grows along the water's edge with large yellow flowers. Iris hexagona Blue Flag Iris, Louisiana Iris Y 12"—18" Poorly-Drained Not applicable This aquatic iris has blue flowers with yellow highlights: found along the water's edge. I. hexagona var. Savanna. Juncus effusus Soft Rush Y 24"—36" tall Poorly-Drained Not applicable This rush grass has dark green foliage during the winter months. Spartina bakeri Cordgrass Y 4'—6' tall Moist High Generally planted just above the water level, showy bunch grass with tan flowers in summer. Good for erosion control along water bodies. Taxodium distichum Bald Cypress Y 60'—80' × 15'—30' Poorly-Drained to Well-Drained High Deciduous canopy tree; wildlife value. Middle Littortal Zone (from 1' to 3' below normal water level) Pontederia cordata Pickerel weed Y 12"—24" tall Submerged Not Applicable An emergent aquatic plant that grows in 6"--18" of water and has showy purple flowers. Sagittaria lancifolia Duck Potato Bulltongue Arrowhead Lanceleaf Arrowhead Y 12"—36" tall Submerged Not Applicable This emergent aquatic plant has white flowers and grows in 0--12" of water. Sagittaria latifolia Arrowhead Y 12"—36" tall Submerged Not Applicable Showy white flowers. Scirpus validus Soft-stem bulrush Y 8' tall Submerged Not Applicable Sedge stems with brown spikelets of flowers. Taxodium ascendens Pond Cypress Y 60'—80' × 15'—30' Moist to Submerged High Deciduous canopy tree; wildlife value. Lower Littoral Zone (from 3' to 5' below normal water level) Nelumbo lutea American Lotus Y 6" above water Submerged Not Applicable Showy yellow flower. Nuphar luteum Spatterdock Lily Y 6" above water Submerged Not Applicable Small plain yellow flower. Nymphaea odorata Fragrant White Water Lily Y 6" above water Submerged Not Applicable Showy yellow flower. Scirpus californicus Bulrush Y 6'—8' Submerged Not Applicable A tall rush with showy seed heads in summer and fall and grows in 1—3' of water.
(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)
PART 11. - DEFINITIONS Chapter 61 - ROADWAY DESIGN AND ACCESS MANAGEMENT