PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Conocarpus erectus
Buttonwood
L., 1753
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A hardy, salt-tolerant coastal shrub or tree growing up to 10 meters tall, featuring dark, deeply furrowed bark, alternate, leathery grayish-green leaves, and unique, small purplish-brown button-like spherical fruit clusters.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Magnoliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Myrtales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Combretaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Conocarpus
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.L., 1753
Record Completeness
66%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Decreasing
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Primary Producer
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Occurs along the highest landward edges of coastal mangrove forests, coastal lagoons, and rocky or sandy shorelines. It transitions between marine wetlands and dry terrestrial communities, avoiding prolonged tidal submersion.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
Serves as an essential transition zone species. Its extensive horizontal root system effectively binds fragile coastal sands, stabilizes upper tidelines against erosion, and creates a physical buffer zone that protects inland plant communities from persistent toxic salt spray.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
200.0 - 1000.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Features specialized salt-excreting salt glands on the petioles that allow the plant to eliminate excess salts absorbed from the coastal substrate, maintaining osmotic balance without the use of pneumatophores.
Possesses highly adaptable roots and trunks that tolerate poor aeration and high wind shear, often taking on a prostrate, twisted growth habit on exposed, rocky beach cliffs to minimize physical damage.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Extensive clearing of upper coastal border zones for hotel developments, beach stabilization structural projects, marinas, and expanding coastal road infrastructure.
Disruption of critical inland freshwater runoffs due to artificial dynamic alterations, which increases local salinity well beyond the plant's ideal range on the landward margin.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The common name 'Buttonwood' refers to the distinct dense round clusters of flowers and fruits, which look remarkably like old-fashioned leather coat buttons.