Same here. Florida has so many invasive plants, and they will crowd out the natives, which in turn reduces our native wildlife. The first thing I look at, is whether the plant I'm considering is on the state's Exotic Pest list. So many pretty ones are! If they're not, then I'll see if I can use it. Also, if I find any exotics volunteering in my yard, I'll pull them up.
Even though the natives tend to be understated, they are usually much easier to establish and maintain. Also, they're constantly introducing different cultivars of some of our natives and I'll mix in some of those sometimes. For example, Beautyberry (Callicarpa) is native to Florida, but I've seen some cultivars recently with variegated leaves, and even with purple leaves. It's not strictly native, but it's Florida wildlife friendly.
