SafePlants

Conocarpus erectus: The Button Mangrove

Conocarpus erectus, commonly known as buttonwood or button mangrove, is an evergreen tree or shrub found in tropical and subtropical coastal environments. Its unique button-like flower heads and fruits give rise to its common names.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• The plant produces purplish-green, cone-like fruits which may present a choking hazard if ingested by pets or small children.
• The plant yields heavy hard compact wood which is commonly used.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Conocarpus erectus L.
• Common Names: buttonwood, button mangrove, button-tree, false mangrove, Florida button, Florida buttonwood, green buttonwood
• Family: Combretaceae
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms:
  • Conocarpus procumbens L.
  • Conocarpus erectus var. procumbens (L.) DC.
  • Conocarpus erectus var. sericeus E. Forst. ex DC.

Distribution and Habitat

• Typically found inland from white mangroves.
• Grows along coastlines, particularly in dryer conditions than red mangroves.
• Native to tropical America.
• Found in shores of central and southern Florida, including the Florida Keys.
• Present in mangrove forests of the Galapagos Islands.
• Also naturalized in disturbed coastal areas in Hawaii.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Can grow as an evergreen shrub or tree, reaching up to 60 feet in height.
• Characterized by a twisted trunk.
• Distinguished by purplish-green, cone-like fruits.

Ecological Role

• Button mangroves can withstand drought, salt, heat, and high winds.
• The leaves of Button Mangrove can be affected by heavy metals (Fe, Zn , Pb, Cu, Mn and Cd) concentration.

Traditional Uses

• Reported to be used as a folk remedy for anemia, catarrh, conjunctivitis, diabetes, diarrhea, and fever, due to its astringent, styptic, and tonic properties.
• The bark is used in tanning.