Buttonwood
conocarpus erectus
Also known as: ["Button Mangrove","Green Buttonwood"]
Overview
A salt-tolerant evergreen tree or shrub native to coastal regions of the Americas, characterized by its distinctive button-like fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","salt tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Combretaceae |
| Genus: | Conocarpus |
| Botanical Name: | Conocarpus erectus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: coastal areas or open landscapes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to full sun gradually if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid compacted soil; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 30°F (-1°C) but prefers stable warmth.
Protect from frost, avoid drafts, maintain consistent warmth, use heat mats if needed.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Fertilize in spring before active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), high humidity (70–80%), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to maintain form and health.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or overgrown branches, encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune dead/damaged branches, shape as desired, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Select new pot, prepare soil mix, inspect roots, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location, use frost cloth, or provide supplemental heat in cold spells.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute as directed, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring; apply liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal issues if they consume the seeds or fruits of Conocarpus erectus. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of the seeds and fruits of Conocarpus erectus can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxicity is not considered life-threatening but may cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicConocarpus erectus, commonly known as the buttonwood tree, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The seeds and fruits are the primary toxic parts, though the effects are generally not severe unless consumed in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Buttonwood suitable for coastal planting?
A: Yes, it is highly salt-tolerant and thrives in coastal environments.
Q: Does Conocarpus erectus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How fast does Buttonwood grow?
A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically reaching maturity over several years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Combretaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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