Just bought a condo in Punta gorda. I have many years experience gardening in Kentucky but havent a clue about Florida. Our condo has a small strip of dirt in an enclosed outdoor patio. Since we will not be full time residents, any suggestions on what to plant???? I love shrub roses, but fear that florida's hot summers will not  work. I appreciate any help.

My hubby really likes succulents, like hen and chickens. I have been looking at gardening books (instead of looking out the window at a lot of snow) and am thinking about succulents, and maybe small grasses.  The area that I have is long and narrow and I thought that this would be no upkeep and little water needed.

Hi, since you are down in Punta Gorda, you should look at this site that give many options of what to plant in your strip and all other area of your yard.  It has info and pictures on many different types of Miami plants and trees, the same hardiness zone you are in.