Be Still Tree: A Hidden Gem for Florida’s Native Plant Gardens
If you’re looking to add a touch of tropical elegance to your Florida garden while supporting native wildlife, the be still tree (Rauvolfia tetraphylla) might just be the perfect addition you never knew you needed. This charming native shrub brings both beauty and ecological benefits to landscapes across the Sunshine State.
What Makes the Be Still Tree Special?
The be still tree is a delightful perennial shrub that typically grows as a multi-stemmed woody plant, usually reaching heights of 13 to 16 feet at maturity. Don’t let its modest size fool you – this native beauty packs a punch when it comes to garden appeal and wildlife value.
You might also encounter this plant listed under its former scientific names, including Rauvolfia canescens or Rauvolfia heterophylla, but regardless of what you call it, this Florida native deserves a spot in more gardens.
Where Does It Call Home?
The be still tree is native to Florida within the United States, though it also naturally occurs throughout tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. In Florida, you’ll find it thriving in the southern portions of the state, where the climate suits its tropical preferences.
Garden Appeal and Landscape Role
What makes the be still tree a gardener’s friend? Its glossy green leaves are arranged in attractive whorls of four around the stems, creating a neat, organized appearance that works beautifully in both formal and naturalistic garden settings. The small, delicate white to pale pink flowers appear in clusters, followed by small dark berries that add seasonal interest.
This versatile shrub works wonderfully as:
- An understory plant beneath taller trees
- A specimen shrub in mixed native plantings
- Part of a wildlife-friendly garden design
- A natural screen or border plant
Perfect Growing Conditions
The be still tree is happiest in USDA hardiness zones 9b through 11, making it ideal for Florida’s climate but unfortunately not suitable for colder regions. This frost-sensitive beauty prefers:
- Partial shade to full sun exposure
- Well-draining soil that doesn’t stay waterlogged
- Moderate, consistent moisture
- Protection from harsh winds and cold snaps
Planting and Care Tips
One of the best things about the be still tree is its relatively low-maintenance nature once established. Here’s how to set it up for success:
Planting: Choose a location with morning sun and afternoon shade, or dappled sunlight throughout the day. Ensure the soil drains well – soggy roots are not this plant’s friend.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during the first growing season to help establish strong roots. Once mature, it can handle brief dry periods but performs best with regular watering during extended dry spells.
Maintenance: Minimal pruning is needed, just remove any dead or damaged branches. The plant naturally maintains its attractive shape.
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
As a Florida native, the be still tree has co-evolved with local wildlife and provides valuable resources for the ecosystem. Its flowers attract butterflies and other small pollinators, while the berries can provide food for birds. By choosing native plants like this one, you’re supporting local biodiversity and creating habitat for creatures that have depended on these plants for generations.
Is the Be Still Tree Right for Your Garden?
If you live in southern Florida and want to create a garden that’s both beautiful and beneficial to local wildlife, the be still tree deserves serious consideration. Its combination of attractive foliage, delicate flowers, and low-maintenance requirements makes it an excellent choice for gardeners who want maximum impact with minimal fuss.
However, keep in mind that this is strictly a warm-climate plant. If you’re gardening outside of zones 9b-11, you’ll need to look for other native alternatives that can handle your local conditions.
The be still tree proves that native doesn’t mean boring – sometimes the best garden additions are the ones that have been thriving in your area all along, just waiting for gardeners to discover their charm.
