FLORIDA — While much of the country is dealing with harsh winter conditions, patches of white seen along Florida roadways are a different kind of “snow.”

According to the University of  Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, there are several varities of pusley – often referred to as “Florida snow” – found in the Sunshine state. Florida pusley (Richardia scabra) is native to Florida. Brazil pusley and largeflower pusley are native to South America.

The UF/IFAS website explains: Plants grow prostrate (creeping along the ground) and have hairy stems that grow to lengths of up to 30 inches and often have a rough upper and lower surface. Small white flowers that form a cluster at the ends of stems are characteristic of this plant.

Some people consider the plant a weed and work to eradicate it from their yards. Others think the flowers are pretty and don't mind seeing it in their yards.

Pusley flowers quickly produce seeds and the plant can spread quickly. If you don’t want it in your yard, UF/IFAS advises to deal with it when it first appears.

Florida pusley grows low to the ground and rarely infests fields with good grass cover, the UF/IFAS website states. “However, Florida pusley can become a prevalent weed in open areas during grass establishment or in areas where grass has died. The dense, mat-like nature of this weed makes it difficult for desirable grasses to grow in its presence.”

If you enjoy the appearance of the tiny flowers, let them grow. They are a source of nectar for bees, butterflies and other pollinators.

If you don’t like to see “Florida snow” in your lawn, the UF/IFAS website recommends:

• Hand removal of plants when they first emerge;
• Frequent mowing to interrupt the life cycle and prevent flowering and seed-set;
• Use of pre-emergent herbicides to inhibit seed germination; and
• Careful selection of broadleaf post-emergent herbicides.