Coastalplain chaffhead, Florida paintbrush (Carphephorus corymbosus)

a showy herbaceous wildflower that blooms from late summer into fall. It occurs naturally in pine, scrubby and dry to mesic flatwoods, sandhills and ruderal areas. Its large, striking flower clusters are very attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. 

Family: Asteraceae (Aster, daisy or composite famiily)
Native range: Peninsular Florida, Bay and Jackson counties
To see where natural populations of Florida paintbrush have been vouchered, visit florida.plantatlas.usf.edu.
Lifespan: Perennial
Soil: Dry well-drained, sandy soils
Exposure: Full sun to minimal shade
Growth habit: 2-3′ tall when blooming
Propagation: Seed
Florida regions of landscape suitability: North, Central, South
Garden tips: Florida paintbrush is a star for attracting butterflies and makes a great addition to formal and naturalistic landscapes. It is easy to integrate and maintain. Spent flowerheads can be left until spring for added color interest or cut to collect seed.