Rain Garden

Our Rain Garden plays a very important role in helping the park and local waterways stay clean and healthy.

Contaminated rainwater from the Visitor Center roof, sidewalks, and parking lot flow to the natural depression that we transformed into the garden.

Native and Florida-friendly plants were selected for their ability to thrive in extended periods of standing water and drought. The roots of plants along with the soil, filter the water before it enters the aquifer. Self-regulated absorption reduces flooding and erosion. This natural filtration system conserves water, reduces pollution, and provides a rich habitat for plants and wildlife.

Help the environment. Create a beautiful rain garden at your home or business.

Plants Suitable for a Rain Garden in Sarasota County
Courtesy of Friends of Osprey Junction Trailhead
Common name Scientific name Description
Blue flag iris Iris virginica FL native
Goldenrod Solidago spp. FL native
Swamp sunflower Helianthus angustifolius FL native
Spider lily Hymenocallis lirisome FL native
Muhly grass Muhlenbergia capillaries FL native
Wire grass Aristidastictavar beyrichiana FL native
Firebush Hamelia patens FL native
Gamma grass Fakahatchee grass FL native
Button Bush Cephalanthus occidentalis FL native
Canna lily Canna spp. FL native
Leather fern Acrostichum danacfolium FL native
Cinnamon fern Osmunda cinnamomea FL native
Marsh hibiscus Hibiscus coccineus FL native
Wild coffee Psychotria nervosa FL native
Dwarf palmetto Sabal minor FL native
Bald cypress Taxodium distichum FL native
Swamp milkweed Asclepias incarnata FL native
Cardinal flower Lobelia cardinalis FL native
Coontie Zamia integrifolia FL native
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