Conocarpus Erectus

The taxonomy status of the two known Conocarpus species is unclear. It is either two separate species (erectus and sericeus) or two varieties of the species erectus. Both Conocarpus Erectus (Green Buttonwood) and Silver Buttonwood are Florida native trees or shrub; it is low-branching and often has multiple trunks. It typically grows to a height of 15-20 feet with a vase-shaped spreading, moderately dense, irregular crown, and has dark brown, attractive, ridged bark.

Conocarpus Erectus Description

Conocarpus Erectus (Green Buttonwood) has very attractive silvery leaves covered with silky hairs; leaves are alternate, simple, entire, lance-shaped and 2-4 inches long. And, flowers are borne in terminal clusters, the small blooms may be white, creamy, gray or purplish in color but are not showy. Also, the fruits are oval, red to brown in color about 1/2 inch long.

Propagated by seed, in cultivation, Conocarpus Erectus (Green Buttonwood) grows well in a range of soils providing they are well- drained; it is a hardy tree, ideal for seaside locations and has no major pests or diseases.

Landscaping Applications of Green Buttonwood

In landscaping, it is durable as a street tree, parking lot islands. Its attractive green foliage and bark also makes it a good choice as a specimen tree on lawns or in parks, or  as a clipped hedge. Finally the strong wood is suitable for cabinetry, fuelwood and for charcoal.

🌳Other popular and beautiful plants: Ligustrum Japonicum.