Conocarpus erectus
Conocarpus erectus · Combretaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around conocarpus erectus and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Button tree or Erect Conocarpus
- Family
- Combretaceae
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (discreet flowers in spikes)
- Adult size
- 4 to 8 m in height, shrubby to tree-like form
- Growth
- Rapid in warm climates
- Hardiness
- Frost tender, tropical to subtropical climate
- Origin
- Tropical America (Caribbean, coasts of Central and South America)
Care
Exposure
Place your Conocarpus erectus in full sun for optimal growth and dense foliage. This shrub appreciates well-lit areas and tolerates coastal conditions, including exposure to salty winds. In partial shade, growth slows but it remains viable.
Watering
Water regularly during active growth, keeping the soil moist but well-drained. Once established, this shrub tolerates moderate drought thanks to its deep root system. In humid tropical climates, reduce watering to prevent root rot.
Soil
Conocarpus erectus adapts to a wide range of soils: sandy, chalky or slightly saline. Impeccable drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Enrich with compost when planting but avoid excess organic matter.
Pruning and shaping
Prune after flowering to encourage branching and achieve a compact form. Remove diseased or misplaced branches. This shrub responds well to pruning and can be shaped as a hedge or topiary, particularly in favorable climates.
Fertilizing
A balanced application (NPK) in spring and early summer is generally sufficient. In poor or sandy soils, slow-release fertilizer promotes steady growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which weakens the plant's structure.
Diseases and pests
In warm, humid climates, watch for scale insects and spider mites. Powdery mildew may appear if air circulation is poor. Good drainage and adequate ventilation prevent most problems. Intervene quickly if an infestation occurs.
Did you know?
Conocarpus erectus is particularly prized in coastal horticulture for its remarkable tolerance to salt and sea spray: it is often found on the front lines in seaside gardens throughout the Caribbean and Mediterranean. Its small winged fruits resemble buttons, hence its charming nickname. It is also a pioneering species of ecological interest, capable of colonizing disturbed areas in tropical climates.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Laguncularia racemosaLaguncularia racemosa
- Indian almondTerminalia catappa
- Terminalia leiocarpaTerminalia leiocarpa
- Combretum collinumCombretum collinum
- AfaraTerminalia superba
- Combretum molleCombretum molle
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.