We were asked by a Kerby’s Community member for recommendations of plants with the following characteristics: native to Florida, do well in our heat, are deer-resistant, and, for the bonus point, hopefully also deter aggressive wasps.
Great questions! Thankfully, most native plants do well in our hot summer heat since they’re natives. As for deterring deer, there are a few options that, as the University of Florida puts it, “are less likely to become a buffet for deer.”
For native trees, try Southern Live Oaks or Magnolias. Non-native options include Crape Myrtles, Bottlebrush, Queen Palm, or fruit trees such as Loquat, Pomegranate, and Fig.
For native shrubs, try Wax Myrtle. Non-native options include Ixora, Japanese Boxwood, Juniper, Oleander, Philodendron, and Viburnum. All but the Philodendron thrive in full sun and can easily withstand our summers once established.
And for native flowers, try sages like Tropical Sage. Non-native options include Crown of Thorns, Marigolds, Peace Lily, and Bush Daisy.
Strong scented herbs such as Thyme, Basil, Mint, or Lemongrass can also help deter deer along with wasps.
Of course, all these plants still allow you to admire any deer that passes through without fearing they’ll gobble up your landscape.