FloridaLandscapeIQ
Rain of Gold (Galphimia gracilis) growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

Rain of Gold — South Florida Plant Guide

Galphimia gracilis

Family: Malpighiaceae · Shrub

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

flowering shrubbutterfly gardenfoundation plantingmass plantingnaturalistic

Style Tags

tropicalcottagebutterfly gardennaturalisticflorida friendly

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial Sun

Water Requirements

Low2/10

Once established (12–18 months), Rain of Gold is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Low to moderate water. 1-2x per week dry season. Good drought tolerance once established. Well-drained soil important.

Soil and Fertilization

sandylimestoneloam

Fertilizer: Light balanced granular. Bloom booster optional for maximum flowering.

Schedule: February, May, September with light balanced fertilizer.

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (4/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
36 ft
Mature Width
36 ft
Growth Rate
moderate
Water Demand
2/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$
USDA Zones
9b, 10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
6/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Rain of Gold at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Rain of Gold grow in South Florida?

Rain of Gold has a moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is Rain of Gold safe for pets?

Yes, Rain of Gold is considered pet-safe.

How much water does Rain of Gold need in South Florida?

Low water needs (2/10). Once established (12–18 months), Rain of Gold is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can Rain of Gold tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Rain of Gold has moderate salt tolerance (4/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.

Is Rain of Gold available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Rain of Gold is classified as: allowed. Allowed.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed. Non-restricted.

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

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Broward County

Allowed

Allowed. Popular Broward County flowering shrub.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Cold sensitive — may sustain damage in freeze events.

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed. Less common in Naples area — available at specialty nurseries.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed. Limited availability in Keys.

USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.

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Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.

Need a Spec Sheet?

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Ask about Rain of Gold

Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.