Spanish bayonets

Spanish Bayonets

I'm really at a loss why the Spanish Bayonet is here.  Every reference that I have consulted says that they are found in dry habitats and are considerably tolerant of drought.  They are common along both coasts of Florida but are said to usually favor dryer areas and here we find them in the swamp along with the Giant Leather Fern, an indicator of continuously wet areas.  Spanish Bayonet is a popular garden plant and perhaps they were planted here at one time. They may be one of those species that have a great tolerance for drought conditions (which has been appealing to humans) but dont really mind the easier life of abundant water.  This plant was used by native americans for food and fiber.  The sharp leaf tips can be removed along with some long fibers which can then be used for sewing.   The flowers can be eaten in salad or deep fried and the flower stems are said to taste like asparagus (a relative of the spanish bayonet).

 Not a plant I would think to find near swamp lovers like Giant Leather Fern and Falsewillow. 

CHEC Out The Three Lakes Trail
  1. It's All About Elevation
  2. Two Gymnosperms
  3. Two Myrtles
  4. Flatwoods, The High Ground
  5. Suddenly Shade
  6. Spanish Bayonets
  7. Getting Wetter
  8. Buttonwood
  9. Inkberry
  10. Bee Tree
  11. Upper Mangrove Swamp
  12. Six Angled whateverwort
  13. Big oak and epiphytes
  14. Coral Bean
  15. Shermans Landing
  16. Marsh Elder
  17. The Invaders
  18. drainage creeks
  19. back to dry land?