How to Grow Silver Buttonwood
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Silver Buttonwood
Conocarpus erectus var. sericeus
shrubSilver buttonwood is a tropical to subtropical evergreen shrub known for its distinctive silvery-gray foliage and dense, compact growth habit. It produces inconspicuous flowers followed by button-like fruiting structures that give the plant its common name. This hardy, salt-tolerant plant is excellent for coastal landscapes and ornamental hedging.
When should you plant Silver Buttonwood in your zone?
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Example Silver Buttonwood timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Silver Buttonwood
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Silver Buttonwood
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10-11; can survive brief freezes in zone 9b
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Get my Silver Buttonwood timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-3 monthsYoung transplant develops root system; silvery foliage emerges gradually
Water regularly to maintain moist soil; avoid waterlogging; protect from extreme wind; apply mulch around base
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsRapid shoot development with silvery-gray pinnate leaves densely clothing stems
Water moderately; apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season; prune lightly to shape; maintain good air circulation
Flowering
Spring-summer, ongoingTiny greenish-yellow flowers appear in dense clusters; flowers are inconspicuous and not the main ornamental feature
Continue regular watering and maintenance; deadheading not necessary; maintain shape with selective pruning
Fruiting
Summer-fallButton-like fruits develop where flowers were; reddish-brown cone-like structures are ornamental
Allow fruits to remain on plant for ornamental appeal; continue watering and feeding; no special care needed
Mature Shrub
Ongoing (perennial)Dense, mounded form with silvery foliage throughout; minimal growth rate
Reduce fertilizer frequency; prune only for shape and size control; water only during extended dry periods; enjoy as focal point or hedge
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect regularly; remove with soft brush; spray with horticultural oil in winter when dormant; encourage natural predators
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Increase humidity with misting; spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe; ensure good air circulation
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; apply neem oil; encourage beneficial insects
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Remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab; spray with horticultural oil; apply insecticidal soap
Uses
Coastal Landscape Design
OrnamentalSilver buttonwood's silvery foliage, salt tolerance, and wind resistance make it ideal for coastal properties and seaside gardens. Its dense form and slow growth habit suit hedging, foundation planting, and specimen landscape use. [source]
Wildlife Habitat
WildlifeThe dense foliage provides shelter and nesting habitat for birds and beneficial insects. Button-like fruits offer food sources for wildlife and add visual interest to the landscape. [source]
Erosion Control and Windbreak
HouseholdThe plant's robust root system and dense branching structure make it excellent for stabilizing sandy soils and creating windbreaks in exposed coastal areas. [source]
Cut Foliage and Arrangements
CraftThe distinctive silvery-gray foliage is prized for floral arrangements and decorative craft projects, offering long-lasting texture and color. [source]
Harvest Tips
Silver buttonwood is ornamental; no harvest is needed. Prune for shape and size control during late winter to early spring before new growth. Remove dead or damaged branches anytime. Light hedging can be performed throughout the growing season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Silver buttonwood is one of the most salt-tolerant ornamental plants and can thrive directly in coastal salt spray environments where few other plants survive.
- 🌱 The common name 'buttonwood' refers to the distinctive button-like fruiting structures that resemble small wooden buttons, making the plant visually interesting year-round.
- 🌱 Native to tropical coastal regions of the Americas, this plant has been used by coastal communities for centuries and is a key species in mangrove-adjacent ecosystems.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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