Gingers prefer shade, although the variegated ones can survive in sun, but many will burn in the hot summer sun, especially in your zone. Dwarf poinciana is a pretty blooming plant that doesn't have very deep roots. You could make a circle around it with variegated oyster plant, if you want something with color. They'd be pretty together when the dwarf poinciana blooms.

What about a Tibouchina? I love mine. It's always in bloom.

Looked both up on FL site. While I would love a Poinciana if I were here to enjoy the summer blooming I'm not here. Also doesn't seem like they can handle the wind in this spot.

Tibouchina says can't handle all day full sun. Also not sure about wind?

Tibouchina can't handle all day sun?!! Tell that to my Tibouchina! Here in St. Pete I've never seen it do well anywhere but in full on blazing sun. The more sun, the more blooms. It's also usually planted as a stand alone specimen plant. None of the ones in my neighborhood fell over during Irma so they can't be so bad in windy conditions. I think the variety with very large leaves and smaller blooms is an exception. That one seems to appreciate some shade.

They sure did break in Frances over here on the east coast, though. It's definitely something to keep in mind. But yeah, most of the ones around here seem to be planted in pretty nearly full sun.

Katherine,

Not too be the harbinger of bad news but you mentioned septic system. If it is near or on the septic tank / drain field I vote for sod. It could possibly cost you BIG $$$ when the roots get into you septic system. Once those roots taste that enriched stuff they will go nuts.

Craig