Florida frost-resistant plants offer effective solutions for landscapes damaged by the state’s rare deep freezes. After the record-breaking 2026 freeze and snow flurries in Port St. Lucie, many homeowners are seeking reliable replacements for frost-killed plants. This guide highlights the top-performing trees, palms, shrubs, and ground covers that survived the cold, providing resilient options for Florida gardens.

Top Florida Frost-Resistant Plants and Trees

Several trees and palms demonstrated strong resistance to cold temperatures, making them ideal for replanting after frost damage. According to field tests and user reports, these species excelled during the 2026 freeze. For more research-based recommendations and gardening advice, consult the University of Florida IFAS Extension.

Alfredi Cold Coconut Palm

Alfredi Cold Coconut Palm is praised for its resemblance to coconut palms but features a smaller trunk and a dense canopy. This palm is slow-growing, adding 6 to 12 inches per year, and maintains a dark green color throughout winter. It is well-suited for use as a centerpiece in Florida landscapes and remains evergreen even in cold weather.

Pindo Palm

Pindo Palm varieties, including single, double, and triple forms, handled both cold and wind exceptionally well. Their upright, compact fronds and silver-colored, fountain-like appearance make them attractive and resilient choices for gardens affected by frost.

Chinese Fan Palm

Chinese Fan Palm stands out with its widespread, tropical crown and booted trunk. It can be planted in small clusters or as independent trees and is ideal for attaching bromeliads. This palm maintained its appearance and health during the freeze.

King Kong Fishtail Palm

King Kong Fishtail Palm is a single-trunk variety capable of withstanding temperatures in the 20s (°F). It features large, tropical fronds and is suitable for areas prone to cold snaps.

Kabata Palm

Kabata Palm is similar to orga palms, with a distinctive white ring around the trunk and a darker green color. This palm survived the cold and is a strong option for frost-prone regions.

Dune Palm

Dune Palm performed especially well in protected areas such as against fences or in buffered locations. Its ability to withstand frost makes it a reliable choice for exposed landscapes.

Podocarpus (Maky Variety)

The Maky Podocarpus is denser and less susceptible to fungus compared to traditional podocarpus. It grows slowly and forms a tough hedge, making it suitable for colder regions of Florida.

Viburnum (Suspensum and Otisum)

Viburnum suspensum and Viburnum otisum are excellent hedge options. The otisum variety, in particular, showed strong resilience compared to alternatives like Kucia during the freeze.

Additional Cold-Hardy Trees

• Jacaranda
• Magnolia figo/Little Gem
• Tabebuia species
• Bauhinia Orchid Trees
• Bottlebrush (Callistemon)
• Pony Tail (Beaucarnea recurvata)

According to field tests, these trees experienced no damage after multiple nights of 25°F temperatures. For those interested in expanding their landscape with resilient and sustainable choices, Florida-friendly tree species are increasingly being used to enhance the urban canopy in Port St. Lucie.

Frost-Resistant Shrubs, Vines, and Ground Covers

Many shrubs and ground covers also survived the Florida freeze, offering options for low-maintenance, resilient landscaping.

Farfugium (Giant Leopard’s Ear/Tractor Seat)

Farfugium is a tropical plant that handled the cold and wind with large leaves, providing protection for smaller plants beneath. It thrives in full shade to morning sun and forms a dense, attractive ground cover.

Brazilian Red Cloak

Brazilian Red Cloak showed some windburn but survived the freeze and retained blooms. Even after being trimmed before the frost, it is expected to fully recover by late summer.

Crotons (Gold Dust, Petra, Mammy)

Gold Dust Crotons proved to be the most resilient, quickly defoliating to protect themselves and then pushing out new growth. Petra Crotons held onto their leaves better, while Mammy Crotons are already regrowing after initial damage. Their lower height provided some wind protection.

Creeping Fig

Creeping Fig vines showed minimal browning and performed well, even in windy areas. They are suitable for covering walls or boulders.

Bromeliads

Bromeliad varieties such as Johannes, Neos, Lemon Lime, Margarit, and Red Hots survived if their cups were emptied of water before the frost. Johannes bromeliads stay low to the ground and produce pups, making them long-term additions to the landscape.

Fruit Trees and Edibles That Survived the Florida Freeze

Several established fruit trees and edible plants showed strong hardiness during the 2026 freeze, even without protection. However, it’s important to note that some citrus varieties have faced ongoing challenges from citrus greening disease impacting the Treasure Coast, which can affect long-term fruit production. To determine which fruit trees are best suited for your area, refer to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.

• Citrus
• Loquats
• Mulberries
• Macadamia
• Jaboticabas
• Pomegranates
• Cold-hardy avocados
• Feijoa
• Cattley guavas
• Eugenias

Minimal damage was observed on Black sapote, tamarind, rose apple, and Java plum. White sapote also demonstrated high cold-hardiness in orchard tests.

Aquatic and Other Resilient Options

Plants in water areas, such as water grass and other aquatic species, excelled during the freeze, especially when planted in filtered or running water. The natural warmth of moving water provided protection from the cold.

Recovery and Planting Tips for Florida Frost-Resistant Plants

When replanting after frost damage, experts recommend waiting to prune until new growth appears. Many plants, including crotons and citrus, may resprout from the roots even if defoliated. Use frost cloth (3 oz is more effective than 1 oz), mulch, and deep watering before a freeze to protect plants. High-density planting creates microclimates, and placing plants in protected areas near fences or buildings can offer additional shelter. Vigorous, established plants that are fertilized before winter are more likely to survive future freezes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Frost-Resistant Plants

What are the best Florida frost-resistant plants for landscaping?

The best Florida frost-resistant plants include Alfredi Cold Coconut Palm, Pindo Palm, Chinese Fan Palm, King Kong Fishtail Palm, Podocarpus (Maky variety), Viburnum, and Gold Dust Crotons. These species survived the 2026 freeze with minimal damage.

How can I protect my Florida plants from future frost?

Use frost cloth, mulch, and deep watering before a freeze. Plant in protected areas near fences or buildings, and choose established, vigorous plants for better survival rates.

Are there fruit trees that survived the Florida freeze?

Yes, citrus, loquats, mulberries, macadamia, jaboticabas, pomegranates, cold-hardy avocados, and feijoa survived the freeze. Some varieties had minimal damage but recovered well.

Can bromeliads survive frost in Florida?

Bromeliads like Johannes, Neos, Lemon Lime, Margarit, and Red Hots survived if their cups were emptied of water before the freeze. They are suitable for long-term planting in Florida gardens.

Where should I plant frost-resistant palms for best results?

Plant frost-resistant palms in protected spots, such as near fences, walls, or buildings. These locations help shield the plants from cold winds and improve their chances of surviving future freezes.

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