10 Not-So-Common Edible Plants to Grow in Southwest Florida

Juju Gurgel
7 hours ago
3 min read

10 Not-So-Common Edible Plants to Grow in Southwest Florida (That Actually Thrive Here)

Peanut butter fruit tree growing in Florida

Southwest Florida’s climate is a dream for tropical and subtropical edibles, yet most home gardens still look the same: tomatoes, peppers, basil, repeat.

The truth? Many traditional crops struggle in Southwest Florida’s heat, humidity, and pests — while less common edible plants absolutely thrive.

If you want:

Low-maintenance plants
Heat-loving edibles
Unique flavors you won’t find at the grocery store
Perennials that keep producing year after year

Then these not so common edible plants to grow in Southwest Florida deserve a spot in your yard.

1. Peanut Butter Fruit

This tropical fruit tastes shockingly like peanut butter — creamy, nutty, and slightly sweet. The Peanut Butter Fruit grows as a small tree and loves Southwest Florida’s warmth.

Why it works in Southwest Florida:

Thrives in heat and humidity
Great for South & Central Florida
Unique conversation starter plant

How to use it: Eat fresh, blend into smoothies, or spread on toast for a naturally nutty flavor.

2. Mulberry

Mulberries are fast-growing, highly productive, and nearly pest-free in Florida.

Why they’re underrated:

Extremely hardy
Heavy fruit producer
Great for families

Uses: Fresh eating, jams, syrups, and baking.

3. Cranberry Hibiscus

This stunning plant has deep red leaves with a tart, cranberry-like flavor. Cranberry Hibiscus ornamental and edible, making it perfect for Southwest Florida landscapes.

Cranberry hibiscus edible leaves in Florida garden

Why gardeners love it:

Heat-tolerant
Pest-resistant
Gorgeous color year-round

How to eat it: Fresh salads, teas, jams, or as a lemon substitute.

4. Longevity Spinach

Also called Okinawa spinach, this perennial green grows effortlessly in Florida and survives where regular spinach fails.

Why it’s a Southwest Florida MVP:

Perennial
Thrives in heat
Easy to propagate

Best uses:Sautéed, smoothies, soups, or eaten raw when young.

5. Brazilian Boldo

A staple in Brazilian home gardens, Brazilian boldo is known for digestive benefits and medicinal teas.

Why it grows well in Southwest Florida:

Handles humidity
Prefers partial shade
Drought tolerant once established

How to use it: Primarily as tea — strong flavor, powerful benefits.

6. Passion Fruit

Passion fruit vines are fast-growing, wildly productive, and perfect for trellises or fences. Once established, they can produce dozens of fruits per season.

Southwest Florida-friendly perks:

Loves full sun
Attracts pollinators
Great for small spaces (vertical growth!)

Best use: Juices, desserts, cocktails, and homemade syrups.

7. Moringa

Often called the “miracle tree,” moringa grows incredibly fast and produces edible leaves, pods, and flowers.

Southwest Florida advantages:

Loves heat
Fast growth
Highly nutritious

Best uses: Teas, powders, sautéed greens, soups.

8. Sugar Cane

Sugar cane is surprisingly easy to grow in Florida and adds a tropical, nostalgic feel to your yard.

Why it works:

Thrives in wet soil
Handles heat beautifully
Great natural privacy screen

How to use: Chew raw, juice, or use in homemade syrups.

9. Chaya (Tree Spinach)

Chaya is one of the most productive leafy greens for hot climates — but it must always be cooked before eating.

Southwest Florida-friendly reasons:

Extremely heat tolerant
High yield
Perennial shrub

Uses: Cooked greens similar to spinach or collards.

10. Cuban Oregano

This thick-leaf herb thrives in Florida and offers a strong oregano-meets-thyme flavor.

Why it’s perfect for Southwest Florida:

Drought tolerant
Great container plant
Strong pest resistance

Best uses: Soups, meats, beans, and medicinal teas.

Bonus: Katuk (Sweet Leaf Bush)

Katuk is a tropical leafy green popular in Southeast Asia and incredibly productive in warm climates.

Why it’s a hidden gem:

Thrives in partial shade
Continuous harvest
Mild, pleasant flavor

How to use: Stir-fries, soups, lightly cooked greens.

Why These Not-So-Common Edible Plants to Grow in Florida Matter

Growing not so common edible plants to grow in Southwest Florida isn’t just about variety — it’s about working with Florida’s climate instead of fighting it.

These plants: