The vegetative index (section 62-340.450, F.A.C.), is used in the identification and delineation of wetlands within Florida.  The use of plant species in the rule shall be consistent at all times with the indicator status of the species on the vegetative index.  Plants on the vegetative index are specifically listed as obligate (OBL), facultative wet (FACW), and facultative (FAC).  Any plant not specifically listed is considered an upland plant except vines, aquatic plants, and any plant species not introduced into the State of Florida as of the effective date of Chapter 62-340, F.A.C. (subsection 62-340.200(17), F.A.C.).

The following are links to the vegetative index by status:

• Facultative
• Facultative Wet
• Obligate 

or the complete vegetative index in alphabetical order:

• Alphabetical Vegetative Index

          A-D | E-H | I-L | M-P | Q-T | U-Z

Vine refers to any plants species which has a twinning or clasping extended growth form originating at the base of the plant and is dependent on its own accumulated growth or the growth of other plants for support.  Some common vines are: Vitas spp. (grape vines), Smilax spp. (greenbriers), and Parthenocissus quinquefolia (Virginia-creeper).  Lygodium japonicum (Japanese climbing fern) and L. macrophyllum are ferns which grow as a vine.  Rubus spp. (blackberries) are considered canes, not vines.

Aquatic plants will generally not be observed along the boundary of a wetland unless they have floated up with rising water.  Because of the general need for support from surface water, the presence of aquatic plants may be used as an indicator of hydrology, in accordance with subsection 62-340.500(3), F.A.C.  This is one of the indicators which may reflect extraordinary events.   Always use reasonable scientific judgement when using the hydrologic indicator.

Facultative species are not used in the evaluation of the dominant vegetative cover (subsection 62-340.300(2)(a) and (b), F.A.C.) or in determining the appropriate strata (subsection 62-340.400, F.A.C.).  Facultative species can be observed as dominant vegetation in uplands as often as in wetlands.  The presence of facultative species does not provide information on the exact placement of the boundary of a wetland.   In general, facultative species may be thought of as neutral.  At times certain facultative species or even upland species may develop morphological adaptations to soil saturation and inundation.  These structures are often excellent hydrologic indicators and may be used as such independent of the indicator status of the species, provided such use is in keeping with subsection 62-340.300(2)(d) and .500(9), F.A.C.