The green buttonwood plant, scientifically known as Conocarpus erectus, is a versatile species native to coastal and wetland areas of the Americas and the Caribbean. It can grow as a shrub or tree, reaching heights of about 20 to 40 feet, though it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size. The plant is characterized by its silver-green, leathery leaves that are elongated and elliptical in shape. These leaves have a distinctive sheen and are arranged alternately along the branches. Green buttonwood produces small, inconspicuous flowers that appear in clusters and are followed by button-like seed pods, which give the plant its common name. Green buttonwood is highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy and saline soils, making it well-suited for coastal areas. It is often used in landscaping for its ability to withstand salt spray and its moderate drought tolerance once established. The plant can serve as a windbreak, hedge, or specimen tree and is valued for its resilience and low maintenance requirements.
