Cuplet Fern at Candyland Park

Mimosa strigillosa

On February 3, 2024, Cuplet Fern partnered with the City of Longwood and installed Mimosa strigillosa, also known as Sunshine Mimosa or Powderpuff, at Candyland Park in Longwood, Florida.  We worked with Chris Capizzi, who is the Director of Parks and Recreation, as well as the Director of Leisure Services for the city.  Cuplet Fern provided the plants for this project, and Chris Capizzi selected the space and arranged for the city to provide a sign for Cuplet Fern.

Mimosa strigillosa was selected as a ground cover because of its hardiness and capability of growing in poor soil conditions.  This native is the host plant for the little sulphur (Eurema lisa) butterfly and is pollinated mainly by bees.  

There was a large turnout to help with the installation due to social media publicity by both Cuplet Fern and the city of Longwood.  Several scouts from troop 507 in Lake Mary and residents of Longwood helped with the planting alongside members of Cuplet Fern.  The space is maintained by the staff at Candyland Park.  

Volunteers who installed Mimosa strigillosa at Candyland Park

This endeavor was successful in bringing together people of the community with our organization and promoted a "feel good" experience and sense of ownership while helping to fulfill our mission.  The plants are thriving and the sign raises awareness of our chapter and the work we do.  

by Sandy Boylston