FloridaLandscapeIQ
Caricature Plant (Graptophyllum pictum) growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

Caricature Plant — South Florida Plant Guide

Graptophyllum pictum

Family: Acanthaceae · Shrub

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

Landscape Uses

understory shrubshade gardenfoundation plantingtropical accent

Style Tags

tropicalshade gardencottage

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Partial SunPartial ShadeFull Shade

Water Requirements

Low3/10

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

Moderate water. 2-3x per week dry season. Consistent moisture in shade applications. Better drought tolerance with some shade.

Soil and Fertilization

sandylimestoneloam

Fertilizer: Balanced 8-2-12 with micronutrients.

Schedule: February, May, September slow-release with micronutrients.

Salt Tolerance

Low (3/10) — plant away from salt air exposure
Mature Height
36 ft
Mature Width
35 ft
Growth Rate
moderate
Water Demand
3/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$$
USDA Zones
10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
5/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Caricature Plant at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Caricature Plant grow in South Florida?

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

Is Caricature Plant safe for pets?

Yes, Caricature Plant is considered pet-safe.

How much water does Caricature Plant need in South Florida?

Low water needs (3/10). Once established (12–18 months), Caricature Plant is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can Caricature Plant tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Caricature Plant has low salt tolerance (3/10) and is not recommended near areas with significant salt air exposure.

Is Caricature Plant available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Caricature Plant 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..

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

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Cold sensitive — protect during freeze events.

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

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed..

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

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed..

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 Caricature Plant

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