At this point on the boardwalk you will see several White Leadtrees (Leucaena leucocephala) to your right. This plant, with feathery leaves, was probably brought into Florida, as cattle fodder and for erosion control, during the early 20th century. It is a class II invasive species meaning that it has the potential to cause damage to the environment by crowding out native species. The Leadtree is a member of the Legume family. White pom-pom flowers make large pods containing several beans. Pods are usually present on the plants throughout the year.
To the left find the native Saltbush (Baccharis halimifolia), called the Groundsel Tree up north. Take a look at the tough, oval leaves with wide toothed edges. This tree flowers in the late fall then turns white with fluffy seeds. It is a nectar plant for many wasps, bees and flies and serves as a host for the Groundsel Beetle larva (Trirhabda bacharidis), the beautiful irridescent grub in the photo.
In the center down by the shore, find a tuft of Sand Cordgrass (Spartina bakeri) which is commonly found in marshes and by the sides of ponds but occasionally is found in sandy areas. The tall, thin leaves can grow to be 3 or 4 feet tall and are often rolled near the tips. In the photo you can see the small spines on the leaf surface that make the Sand Cordgrass leaves feel like sandpaper.
