The Silver Buttonwood (Conocarpus erectus var. sericeus) is a stunning native shrub or small tree known for its soft, silvery foliage and strong tolerance for tough coastal conditions. A variety of the native Buttonwood (Conocarpus erectus), this cultivar shines—literally—with leaves covered in fine, silvery hairs that reflect sunlight and sea spray. Native to South Florida, the Keys, and the Caribbean, Silver Buttonwood adds a refined, contemporary look to both natural and modern landscapes.

Typically reaching 15 to 25 feet tall when grown as a tree (or easily kept smaller as a hedge or shrub), Silver Buttonwood features a multi-trunked or single-stem form with smooth gray bark and striking foliage that adds year-round interest. Small, button-like greenish flowers appear seasonally, followed by tiny brown fruit capsules, but the plant’s primary appeal is its shimmering leaves and adaptability.

This plant thrives in full sun, is highly salt-tolerant, drought-resistant once established, and is ideal for coastal gardens, bioswales, and windbreaks. It’s also a favorite for sculptural pruning and modern landscape designs, offering native beauty with a unique twist.