Can be pruned. Works well as a specimen plant. Its thick, large leaves make it stand out from most other plants in the landscape. Very useful in settings subject to salt spray.

Blooms open late in the day and remain open through the night. Fragrant. Can be agrown as an anuual north of its native range.  Considered to be invasive in subtropical and tropical areas outside of its natural range. Recommended only for use where it can be controlled such as on a trellis or in areas where expansive growth is appropriate. Rain gardens or bioswales.

Shade tree. It is known for its smooth light gray bark. Its leaves turn yellow and then light brown remaining on the tree until nearly spring and providing interest to the winter landscape. If you are privileged to have this tree in the landscape, retain and protect it.

Salt water is not required. This species is cold sensitive near the northern ends of its range and may die back during extreme freezes. Mangroves are protected and you may not trim or remove them. See this Florida DEP web page for the latest information: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/central/Home/SLERP/Mangroves/mangroves.htm Very good for coastal stabilization. Can act as a specimen plant in coastal areas. This tree is noted for its prop roots.

Foliage when crushed smells like citrus. This small tree has an elegant appearance that makes it suited to use as a specimen plant. The glossy evergreen foliage makes this small tree also make it effective as a screen or barrier plant.

The range of this species barely makes it into north Florida but extends north to southern Canada. Shade tree.

Restoration of savannas. Curiosity in the wildflower garden.

Interesting silky-looking foliage. Tallish groundcover in mesic (moist) areas. Can be planted in groupings in shady areas. Despite the name, the leaves are pretty, almost silky or velvety in appearance.