PRESENTATION: Edible Natives for Your Landscape

Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens, 633 Osceola Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

Did you know that many of Florida’s native plants are edible? Even some of those pesky “weeds” that pop up in our yards have culinary value. In this presentation, Florida Wildflower Foundation Executive Director Stacey Matrazzo will introduce you to the edible, medicinal and nutritional properties of some native plants commonly found in our yards and landscapes. Learn how to identify these plants, what parts are edible, how to prepare and consume them, and how to harvest them safely and responsibly. Discover natives that make excellent teas, jams, salads, sautés, herbs, spices and more. Learn which plants are high in vitamins and which ones have therapeutic properties. Find out about the wildlife that also depend on these plants and learn how to make space for them in your landscape to create a native plant buffet for all!

Come early and enjoy the exhibition, Natural Florida: Art by Emma Sears Marsh and Joy Postle

Featuring botanical watercolors by Emma Sears Marsh and oil paintings by Joy Postle of Florida plants, wildlife, and landscapes. Both women were talented and trailblazing artists. With dedication and perseverance, they documented the plants and wildlife of Florida during the early decades of the 20th century when much of the state’s land remained undeveloped and the biodiversity of native plants supported the birds, insects and wildlife. Today, much of the habitat they observed has been erased or disturbed by development. Through their artwork we can increase our appreciation and understanding of Florida’s ecosystems, the importance of native plant habitat to preserve biodiversity, and how we can become part of the collective effort to sustain the native flora and fauna of Florida.