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Avicenniaceae

Black mangrove is a tropical plant that grows along the coast from Texas south to Brazil and Equador. In Texas it grows near the mouth of the Rio Grande, along the Laguna Madre, and in salty, sandy or clay tidal flats and lagoons along the Coastal Prairies and Marshes of south Texas. In warmer climates it forms a tree, but in Texas freezes kill the top growth every so often, so that it rarely grows more than 3 feet tall. Its leaves are evergreen, thick and leathery. Masses of small air roots sometimes hang from the larger branches. Mangrove is unique among our shrubs in being able to tolerate salty, brackish, flooded conditions, as well as disease and insects. It can also grow in fresh water, and can be used to stabilize the banks of rivers and lakes. Existing mangrove swamps are unique habitats that protect many aquatic and semi-aquatic creatures and ocean coasts from erosion.

Plant Habit or Use: small shrub
medium shrub

Exposure: sun
partial sun

Flower Color: creamy white

Blooming Period: summer

Fruit Characteristics: flattened capsule with one large, flattened seed

Height: 1 to 9 feet

Width: 1 to 8 feet

Plant Character: evergreen

Heat Tolerance: very high

Water Requirements:

Soil Requirements: adaptable

USDA Hardiness Zone: 9

Additional Comments: