BBB, Landscaping Do's and Don'ts


	Landscape Do's & Don'ts
	updated on 02/10/2026
	Landscaping Guidelines for Bermuda Bay
	Maintaining Bermuda Bay’s natural beauty requires thoughtful plant choices—especially in our coastal, beachfront environment. Some plants may look appealing but can become invasive, attract pests, damage infrastructure, or pose safety risks to residents and pets. Below is a list of plants that should not be planted in the ground at Bermuda Bay, followed by recommended native Florida plants that are better suited to our salt-air and coastal conditions. Landscaping Do's & Don'ts [PDF] Landscaping Do Not Plant List [PDF]
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	Plants Not Permitted in Bermuda Bay The following plants are considered invasive, destructive, unsafe, or unsuitable for planting in the ground within the Bermuda Bay community. Some may be allowed in pots or planters only, but should never be planted directly into the soil. Invasive or Aggressive Plants These plants spread quickly and threaten native landscaping: ● Asian Sword Fern – Highly invasive and difficult to control ● Mexican Petunia – Spreads aggressively and displaces native plants ● Oyster Plant – Rapid ground cover that overtakes garden beds ● Pothos (Pathos) Vine / Ivy – Becomes invasive when planted outdoors; can climb trees and structures ● Philodendron – Fast-growing and invasive in Florida landscapes ● Snake Plant – Spreads beyond intended areas ● Sprenger’s Asparagus Fern – Invasive with sharp thorns ● Bamboo (including clumping varieties) – Spreads aggressively and is extremely difficult to remove Plants That Attract Pests These plants can create habitats for insects and wildlife that become nuisances: ● Bromeliads – Collect standing water and can harbor mosquito larvae and roaches ● Fruit & Citrus Trees – Attract rodents and other pests Toxic or Dangerous Plants These pose risks to children, pets, and residents: ● Oleander – Highly toxic to humans and animals ● Pothos (Pathos) Vine – Toxic if ingested by children or pets ● Any Thorned Plants or Hazardous Cacti (especially near walkways), including: ● Agave / Century Plants ● Various cactus species Plants with Destructive Root Systems These plants can damage plumbing, irrigation lines, sidewalks, and foundations: ● Rubber Tree ● Schefflera
	Recommended Native & Salt-Tolerant Florida Plants
	The following Florida-native and salt-resilient plants are well-suited for Bermuda Bay’s coastal environment. These options help preserve our landscaping, reduce maintenance issues, and support local ecosystems. Native Flowers & Groundcovers ● Beach Sunflower (Helianthus debilis) – Bright yellow blooms; excellent ground cover ● Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) – Drought-tolerant with vibrant color ● Tickseed (Coreopsis) – Florida’s state wildflower; low maintenance ● Sea Purslane – Salt-tolerant groundcover for coastal areas Native Shrubs ● Cocoplum – Excellent for hedges and coastal conditions ● Firebush – Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds ● Simpson’s Stopper – Dense foliage with seasonal flowers ● Inkberry (Gallberry) – Hardy shrub ideal for sandy soils ● Buttonwood (Green or Silver) – Very salt-tolerant and wind-resistant Native & Coastal-Friendly Palms ● Sabal Palm (Florida State Palm) – Extremely salt and wind tolerant ● Silver Saw Palmetto – Native, drought-tolerant, and low maintenance ● Dwarf Palmetto – Ideal for smaller landscaped areas Why Native Plants Matter Using native and salt-tolerant plants helps: ● Protect Bermuda Bay’s coastal ecosystem ● Reduce pest issues ● Minimize damage to infrastructure ● Lower water and maintenance needs ● Preserve the beauty and safety of the community Important Reminder Any landscaping changes must comply with Bermuda Bay community guidelines. If you are unsure whether a plant is permitted, please check with the Association before planting. Landscaping Do's & Don'ts [PDF] Landscaping Do Not Plant List [PDF]
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	Bermuda Bay Beach Condominium Association, Inc. 4201 - 38th Ave South, St. Petersburg, FL 33711-4066 Tel: 727-864-0735 / Fax: 727-864-0870

Landscape Do's & Don'ts

Landscaping Guidelines for Bermuda Bay

Recommended Native & Salt-Tolerant Florida Plants