Shrub
Rusty Lyonia
Lyonia ferruginea
Varieties We Carry
StandardLyonia ferruginea
Sizes & Pricing
3 galFrom$19.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun
WaterLow
Mature size10-20 feet × 6-10 feet
About Rusty Lyonia
Rusty lyonia (Lyonia ferruginea) is a native evergreen shrub or small tree endemic to the coastal plain of the southeastern United States, characterized by distinctive rusty-brown scales on its young twigs and leaf undersides and small, urn-shaped white flowers in spring. It is a dominant species in Florida scrub and dry flatwood habitats. Starting at $19.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring
- Flower Color
- White, Pink
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Handles summer heat well once established.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Grows best in full sun to partial sun; endemic to Florida scrub and dry flatwoods where light is abundant. Tolerates light shade at the woodland edge but may become open and leggy without adequate sun.
Water
Very drought tolerant once established; adapted to the xeric, well-drained sandy soils of Florida scrub. No supplemental watering needed after establishment; avoid poorly drained or irrigated sites.
Soil & Fertilizer
Requires acidic, sandy, extremely well-drained soil — characteristic of Florida scrub habitat. No fertilizer needed; excess nutrients are counterproductive. Do not plant in clay or amended soils.
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Common questions
Is Rusty Lyonia a good plant for St. Augustine?
Rusty Lyonia is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 10-20 feet × 6-10 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.