Cyrilla arida, commonly known as Scrub Titi, is an extremely rare Florida native shrub. Originally discovered by famed botanist J.K. Small in the early 20th century, this unique shrub was native to the desert-like scrub habitats of central Florida. For decades, its identity was debated and its presence in the wild uncertain until rediscovered by Kenneth Wurdack and the Woodlanders team in Highlands County, Florida. That tiny remnant may now be sole remaining individualof this speciesleft in the wild, making its presence in cultivation all the more important. Unlike its wetland-loving relatives, Cyrilla arida thrives on deep, nutrient-poor, xeric sandhills yet adaptable to garden settings. In late spring/early summer, Scrub Titi puts on a graceful show of creamy white racemes. This deciduous to semi-evergreen shrub is both drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established. Ideal for native plant gardens, dry borders, or sandy woodland edges, Cyrilla arida brings a piece of rare Florida scrub into the cultivated landscape. These are established in large cells. Ready for the ground or larger pots (1-2 gallon).
