Wildflower garden.

The common name black mangrove is a reference to the color of the trunk and heartwood. The plant excretes salt from its leaves, an adaptation to a saline environment. Pneumataphores rise above the substrate and make this an important plant for coastline erosion prevention. This is a protected plant and you may not trim back or gather propagules without permission. Valued as a shoreline stabilization plant. Can also be used for screening.

This is a rare Florida native that is listed as Endangered by the USFWS.  Please obey all applicable laws and regulations.

Small tree with shiny foliage. New leaves are reddish. Columnar growth form. Suited to planting near structures and a good background plant for urban yards.

These species are, in combination, found throughout Florida and from a cultivation perspective, are very similar.  In nature, O. stricta tends to be in more coastal areas. Rarely grown but worthy of consideration in hot dry locations where the thorns are not an issue or are an asset. These cacti are attacked by the cactus moth, Cactoblastis cactorum, which arrived in Florida in 1989, and this invasive species has become a serious threat to the diversity and abundance of Opuntia cacti in North America. If it become a problem on an Opuntia used in landscaping, it is best treated by manual removal as insecticides can also kill native butterflies and pollinators. O. stricta is invasive in many warmer parts of the world including Australia, parts of Africa, and parts of Eurasia. Makes an interesting wildflower. Can be used as a low-growing hedge in hot, dry locations.

Listed as Threatened by the State of Florida.  Please acqure from reputable sources. Screen or hedge plant. Informal foundation shrub. Blooms profusely in late fall. Fruits are contorted and split open to reveal red seeds.

Would be nice to see this used more in restoration, but the hydrology and substrate need to be correct. Adapted to edge of marshes. Suited for use only where the hydrology matches its needs. Where present, protect by protection hydrology and water quality.