Found naturally in Florida in glades, which have marly soils, and in Alachua County, in shallow sands over marl deposits that cover the underlying limerock. Small specimen plant.

Two color morphs, green and silver. Since it often occurs along the upland margin of mangrove swamps, it is sometimes referred to as the 4th Florida mangrove. The silver morph is generally smaller and shrubbier than the green morph. Specimen plant, shade tree, hedge. Will tolerate shearing.