Buttonwood
Conocarpus erectus
Green Buttonwood
About this plant
Conocarpus erectus, commonly known as Buttonwood, is a shrub or small tree with dense, glossy green leaves and small button-like flowers. It is often used as a hedge or windbreak in coastal areas due to its salt tolerance. This plant is valued for its fast growth and ability to withstand harsh conditions.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Conocarpus
- Family
- Combretaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Myrtales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Florida, Caribbean, Central America, South America
- Distribution
- Native to coastal areas of tropical and subtropical Americas, including Florida, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Widely planted in similar climates worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 40 °C
- Optimal
- 20-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-12
- Soil pH
- 6.0-8.0 (slightly acidic to alkaline)
- Soil type
- well-draining sandy or loamy soil
Watering. Water regularly during the first year to establish roots, then reduce frequency. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Fertilize in spring and summer with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause excessive leaf growth and reduce flowering.
Conocarpus erectus is a tough and fast-growing shrub or small tree that thrives in sunny, warm locations. It is drought-tolerant and generally resistant to diseases, making it low-maintenance. Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root problems, so watering should be moderate and soil well-draining.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Glossy green leaves, small white to greenish button-like flowers, dense bushy form
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
Non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe for homes with children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex
- Pollen level
- Low
Conocarpus erectus may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, mainly due to its pollen and sap. People who are allergic to plant pollen or have sensitive skin should avoid direct contact. Wearing gloves when handling the plant and keeping it away from living spaces can help reduce exposure.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot. In dry conditions, leaves may brown or drop. Occasionally, pests like scale insects may appear but are usually manageable.
Uses
Used as an ornamental hedge, windbreak, or shade tree in coastal landscapes. Its salt tolerance makes it ideal for seaside planting.
Notes
Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. It can be trimmed into hedges or allowed to grow naturally as a small tree. Repot young plants annually if grown in containers.