The climate in Southwest Florida allows a wide variety of tropical plants to thrive under the Naples sunshine. You’ll find everything from the iconic palm tree to bright dune sunflowers. While the plants in and around Naples are beautiful, they also play a crucial role in the local ecosystem.

When you think of Naples, you likely envision the beach and palm trees. Not all palm trees you see are the same, and not all are native to Florida. One of the native palms is the sabal palm, which is the state tree. You will also see tall royal palms and the smaller Christmas palms, which are commonly seen planted around homes.

Palm trees aren’t the only tropical plants that call Naples home. Colorful and fragrant flowers also flourish here. Hibiscus thrives in tropical climates. Its large colorful flowers are a beautiful sight and are favorites for hummingbirds and butterflies. Bougainvillea is a vibrant and showy flower that can be found adding pops of color to fences, trellises, and gardens throughout Naples.

Along the Gulf, growing in the sand, are dune sunflowers. These bright yellow daisy-like flowers have adapted to the dry, salty sands they call home.

Another native plant that is perfectly adapted to Naples’ tropical conditions is the saw palmetto. The saw palmetto is a small shrub with fan-shaped leaves found in abundance in the preserves around Naples. It provides a habitat for wildlife to escape the heat of the sun.

Conservation is essential for maintaining the tropical plants that make Naples a paradise. In surrounding Collier County, there are more than 4,700 acres of protected land, much of which you can explore.

Naples Botanical Garden is perfect for finding native and non-native plants without venturing too deep into the wilderness. You can explore on your own or take guided tours to learn about the plants and conservation efforts. The botanical garden also hosts art shows and other seasonal events for you to enjoy during your trip.

The Inn at Pelican Bay is the perfect spot for a nature vacation, situated between the nearby white-sand beaches and the lush tropical plants in the surrounding preserves. Call (239) 597-8777 to book your tropical adventure.