Silver Buttonwood

Silver Buttonwood (Conocarpus erectus var. sericeus) is a Florida-native evergreen shrub or small tree known for its silvery foliage and dense branching. When left untrimmed, it can grow approximately 15–20 feet tall and 10–15 feet wide. Regular pruning allows it to remain smaller as a maintained hedge. In Southwest Florida, it is commonly planted near waterfront properties, along property lines, and in coastal landscape beds.

Full sun supports the strongest silver leaf coloring and dense growth. This plant adapts to sandy, well-drained soil and tolerates alkaline conditions often found near the coast. Its natural resistance to salt spray makes it particularly suitable for exposed properties where less tolerant shrubs may struggle.

For privacy hedges, space Silver Buttonwood approximately 3–5 feet apart, depending on the starting plant size and desired coverage. Individual specimens need more room to develop into small trees. Keep mature growth clear of buildings, walkways, and property boundaries through occasional pruning.

Newly planted Silver Buttonwood benefits from regular watering while its roots become established. Mature plants tolerate extended dry periods and typically need little supplemental irrigation. Water during prolonged drought, allowing the soil to begin drying between applications.

Small, rounded flower heads develop among the foliage and are followed by button-shaped clusters of fruit. These features are less noticeable than the leaves, which provide the plant's main ornamental value throughout the year.

Growth is moderate to fast in favorable conditions. Trimming encourages branching and helps maintain a defined hedge, while selective pruning can develop a single-trunk or multi-trunk tree form. Established plants generally require little fertilizer when grown in suitable soil.

As a native coastal plant, Silver Buttonwood handles Florida's heat, seasonal rainfall, and salt exposure. Young plants may experience foliage damage during freezing temperatures, making protected locations helpful in colder inland areas.

Why You'll Love It

Silver-Gray Foliage: Soft-looking, silvery leaves provide year-round contrast against green shrubs and tropical plants.

Coastal Salt Tolerance: Withstands salt spray and windy conditions common along Southwest Florida waterfront properties.

Florida-Native Evergreen: Naturally occurs in Florida's coastal habitats and adapts to local growing conditions.

Privacy Hedge Growth: Dense branching can be trimmed into a tall screen or maintained at a lower height.

Drought Tolerance: Established plants withstand extended dry periods with limited supplemental irrigation.

Sun Requirements: Performs best in full sun, which supports stronger silver foliage coloring and dense growth.

Water Needs: Requires regular irrigation during establishment. Mature plants generally have low water requirements.

Mature Size: Approximately 15–20 feet tall and 10–15 feet wide when left untrimmed. Hedge dimensions can be controlled through pruning.

Best Uses: Coastal privacy hedges, waterfront properties, windbreaks, native landscape beds, property borders, and sunny garden screens.