Groundcover Layer for Florida Zone 9


This page focuses on groundcover plants that protect soil, suppress weeds, cool the root zone, feed pollinators, and support a healthy living mulch in Florida’s USDA Planting Zone 9. These low-growing species weave between shrubs, trees, and pathways, filling gaps so bare soil is rarely exposed.

Not every plant shown has been tested yet at the Ocala Food Forest, but each appears on reputable Florida or warm-climate plant lists as a good candidate for Zone 9 heat, humidity, storms, and occasional light freezes when properly sited. Plants listed here were chosen to avoid known invasive species and those commonly flagged as highly toxic to people or pets, but always double-check for your own situation.

Use this list alongside our Monthly Guild Challenge, overall Food Forest Plant List, and Garden Vegetables as you choose groundcovers to knit your food forest together.


Garden Vegetables Food Forest Plants Monthly Guild Challenge

Zone and suitability information on this page is drawn from UF/IFAS Extension, Florida Native Plant Society, Florida-friendly landscape resources, and perennial groundcover references.

Groundcover Layer – Florida Zone 9

Florida Native

Low-growing native groundcovers that knit soil, shelter beneficial insects, and blend seamlessly into a Florida food forest floor.

Florida Friendly

Non-native but well-behaved groundcovers that handle Zone 9 heat and humidity without being listed as invasive, while supporting healthy soil and beneficial insects.