Eugenia Chapter yard tour enthusiasts didn’t have to go to the Kentucky Derby to see this winner thanks to Katie and Jim Dyreby (pronounced der-bee). Much thanks to them for hosting our first yard tour of 2026. While the opening photo of a fairy hibiscus (Hibiscus poeppigii) isn’t the traditional bouquet of nonnative roses, it is only one of many native gems in their treasure chest of a yard.
We were treated to a showing of a recently completed HUGE native relandscaping project along the west side of their lovely home. The Dyrebys incorporated many tropical natives not typically seen in our area: willow bustic/white bully (Sideroxylon salicifolium), Florida boxwood (Schaefferia frutescens), cinnamon bark (Canella winterana), and torchwood (Amyris elemifera). While I was very interested in the diversity of species planted for the project, what impressed me the most was the size and quality of the plant material. Jim commented how “challenging” it was to be able to find several of the plants on their list, with their plant search taking them down into Palm Beach County.
Their property is elevated above Jungle Trail, affording lovely views of the Indian River Lagoon. Despite the downward slope of the land, the Dyrebys have utilized all the available space, making sure to have native vegetation on the lower level that is more suited to being periodically wet.
I frequently comment that we all should be not just thinking about what native plants to put in our yards but also try to incorporate some hardscape features to add elements of shape, color, function, and interest. The Dyreby’s paver walkway surrounded with the sunshine mimosa (Mimosa strigillosa) blends in so well with the terrain and provides great access to move through the native landscape.
Much thanks to everyone who brought native plants for our auction. Remember that in the summer yard tours begin at 5:30 pm, and we have our native plant auction after the yard tour is completed. Always park respectfully and please be on time to start the tour.
Special thanks to chapter members Janet Kistler and Peggy Perkins. They joined me for a lively outreach event at Park Place in Sebastian so we could promote Eugenia Chapter and Florida’s native plants while the crowd ate donuts!
ircnativeplants.org 