The Silver Buttonwood Tree (Conocarpus erectus var. sericeus) is a Florida native prized for its shimmering silver-gray foliage and near-indestructible toughness in coastal conditions. Trained as a small tree, it offers a sculptural trunk and a soft, silvery canopy that contrasts beautifully with green landscapes.
Why Florida Customers Choose Us
Silver Buttonwood Tree Breakdown
Appearance:
Small, oval, leathery leaves covered in fine silky hairs that give the whole canopy a silvery-blue sheen.
The trunk and branches grow gnarled and twisting with age, adding character. Inconspicuous greenish flowers are followed by small, cone-like "buttons."
Growth Rate:
Moderate.
Establishes reliably and fills out its canopy within a few years.
Size:
15–20 feet tall and wide as a tree, occasionally larger.
Available in 25-gallon (8–10 feet) and 45-gallon (10–12 feet) tree form.
Sunlight Requirements:
Full sun.
The silver color is brightest in full, direct sun and fades toward green in shade.
Water Needs:
Low.
Water through establishment, then it is one of the most drought-tolerant trees we sell. Handles salt spray, brackish water, and periodic flooding.
Soil Preferences:
Sandy, alkaline, and even poorly drained coastal soils.
It is not fussy.
Maintenance:
Low.
Occasional pruning to lift or shape the canopy; otherwise largely hands-off. Watch for sooty mold if scale appears.
Landscape Use:
Coastal and waterfront shade tree, specimen, streetscape, parking islands, and anywhere salt and wind defeat other trees.
Striking against dark green hedges.
Climate Tolerance:
USDA zones 10–11.
Built for South Florida heat, salt, and hurricanes; damaged by hard frost.
If you are planting near the water or simply want a tree that asks for nothing and still looks distinctive, Silver Buttonwood is the native answer.
Florida Delivery Available
We have in-stock Silver Buttonwood Tree ready to ship throughout Florida. Multiple sizes available with professional installation options. Order online or text/call 561-898-2028 for expert advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Plant & Care for Silver Buttonwood Tree in Florida
Choose a Sunny, Well-Drained Spot
Buttonwood loves sun. If your area stays wet after rain, mound slightly to improve drainage.
Planting Hole + Height
Dig 2–3x wider than the root ball and slightly shallow so it sits a touch high. Backfill with native soil.
Water to Establish
Deep water daily early on, then taper as it hardens off. Consistent moisture in the first few weeks matters most.
Shape It (Tree vs Shrub)
For a tree form, gradually remove lower growth over time and shape the canopy—don’t “lion tail” or strip it aggressively.
Normal Leaf Drop
Some leaf drop is normal during establishment or seasonal changes. Keep watering consistent and it usually rebounds.
Professional Installation Available: Not comfortable planting yourself? We offer expert installation services throughout Florida. Our team has 15+ years of experience ensuring your plants thrive. Call 561-898-2028 to add installation to your order.
What Florida Customers Say
No need to look any further than Dino's Palms :) Incredible website - very easy to use. After a few minutes with fantastic pricing, I purchased what was needed and sent the order. Received an immediate reply and a subsequent date for installation. The tree was as described - the installer was professional and thorough even cleaning where some dirt had fallen in the street. Will deal again Highly recommend / easy 5 Stars - thank you!!!
Exceptional service!!! Awesome customer service. Dany was very helpful and answered my questions promptly. My palm tree was delivered quickly. They will be my 1st choice when looking for unique and nice looking plants. The Best in the Business..100% recommended 😃😃😃
Dino's Palms did an amazing job with delivering and installation of my new calusia. Their plants are very affordable and I highly recommend them.
