Gopher Apple
Licania michauxii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
24"–48" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
FL
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Gopher apple is a low-growing native shrub that forms dense mats of glossy evergreen foliage. It produces small white flowers in spring and early summer, followed by small fruits. This drought-tolerant groundcover works well in sandy soils and coastal conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Gopher Apple takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very informal spreading growth habit
- May appear too wild or unstructured for front yards
- Dense mat formation can look unkempt to traditional landscaping preferences
Wildlife value
The spring blooms attract native bees and beetles for pollination. The fruits provide food for various wildlife including gopher tortoises, and the dense growth provides shelter for small animals.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Gopher Apple fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.