Plants

Passion Flower at Gulf Islands.

NPS Photo

Plants are a vital part of Gulf Islands from marine to freshwater environments to dune and maritime forest communities. They act as food, shelter, produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, making them an essential part of a healthy environment. Some plants at Gulf Islands are the building blocks of their environment like the sea oat is to dune formation. From the large historic live oak (Quercus virginiana) to the small flowers of false rosemary (Conradina canescens) and everything in between, explore the parks beautiful plants.

 

Gulf Islands Plants

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  Sargassum

  Considered a foul smelling nuisance to some beach goers, Sargassum is more important than meets the eye.

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  Sea Oats

  Learn about these iconic plants that line the shores of the gulf islands.

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  Seagrass Beds

  Playing a critical role in the health of the barrier islands and the marine animals near its shores.

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  Trees & Shrubs

  Trees and shrubs are an integral part of the Gulf Islands ecosystem.

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  Wildflowers

  Wildflowers add a dash of color throughout the barrier islands.