Prairie Black-Anthers (Melanthera angustifolia)

Melanthera angustifolia, commonly known as the Everglades Squarestem or Prairie Black-anthers, is Florida endemic native to southern Florida and considered rare. This perennial wildflower—often called "Salt & Pepper" for its distinctive white petals and dark anthers giving it the name Salt & Pepper. It has a short stature and small narrow leaf blades which have a rough texture. It is highly drought-tolerant and an excellent nectar source for butterflies and other pollinators. It thrives in habitats such as pine rocklands, a variety of prairie habitats, pinelands and hammocks of the southern portion of the state. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is tolerant of salt air. Bloom time is typically throughout the warm months in Florida and can be all year. This plant grows in zones 9b, 10a, 10b, and 11. /AC