Grey Mangrove
avicennia marina
Also known as: ["Grey Mangrove","White Mangrove","Mangrove Avicennia"]
Overview
A salt-tolerant mangrove species native to coastal regions, known for its pneumatophores (aerial roots) and ability to thrive in brackish water.
Benefits & Perks
["disease resistant","deer resistant","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Genus: | Avicennia |
| Botanical Name: | Avicennia marina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: coastal areas, saltwater tolerant environments, or brackish water settings
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; can tolerate saline conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove dead/damaged branches; light pruning can be done throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates full sun with acclimation; adjust for seasonal light changes.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to full sun to avoid leaf burn; provide shade during intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; monitor for signs of sun stress.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
sandy, well-draining soil with high salinity tolerance
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of cactus soil and regular potting mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (20–30°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers stable conditions above 10°C.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months with slow-release fertilizer during active growth
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; softwood cuttings root more readily.
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, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; avoid direct sunlight during rooting phase.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or inward-growing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth; focus on structural improvement.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or early growth phase; remove dead/diseased wood first; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
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 to prevent root rot.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to dieback.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; move indoors in freezing conditions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; may lead to reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; flush soil periodically; monitor for signs of nutrient excess/deficiency.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAvicennia marina is not toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known toxic compounds that would harm felines if consumed.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAvicennia marina is not toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic substances in the plant that would pose a risk to canine health if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAvicennia marina, commonly known as grey mangrove, is not considered toxic to humans. The plant has no known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does Avicennia marina adapt to saline environments?
A: It possesses specialized aerial roots called pneumatophores for oxygen uptake in waterlogged soils and salt-excreting glands on leaves to tolerate high salinity.
Q: Is Avicennia marina suitable for home gardens?
A: It is best suited for coastal landscaping or large-scale restoration projects due to its size and specific habitat requirements.
Q: Does Avicennia marina produce flowers?
A: Yes, it produces small, yellow-green flowers that are attractive to pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
