❖ Common name- Silver Buttonwood

❖ Scientific name- Conocarpus erectus

❖ Classification-

Kingdom- Plantae

Family- Combretaceae.

Order- Myrtales

❖ Mode of propagation-

There are several methods for growing Conocarpus erectus tree, including: Propagation by Cuttings – This involves taking a cutting from an existing Conocarpus tree and growing a new tree from it. Propagation by Seeds – Conocarpus trees can also be grown from seeds, which are collected from the tree and planted in well-draining soil. Air Layering – This method involves making a small cut in the bark of a Conocarpus branch, applying rooting hormone to the area, and then wrapping it in moist sphagnum moss. The cut area will eventually develop roots, and the branch can be cut off and planted as a new tree. Grafting – This is a more advanced method that involves joining the stem of a Conocarpus tree to the rootstock of a different tree to create a new hybrid tree.

❖ Uses-

The Conocarpus tree is widely used in cosmetic agriculture projects and can be easily trimmed and formed, especially on the streets and highways. It is also used as a fence and windbreak in open desert areas and on farms. Recent studies have shown the antidiabetic, anticancer, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties of various parts of Conocarpus including leaves, bark, stem, and fruit in laboratory and animal models. The wood of buttonwood was formerly used for firewood, cabinetwork, and charcoal making and is very strong. It is an ideal wood for smoking meats and fish. Included or embedded bark often develops in major branch crotches, but the strong wood appears to compensate for this potential defect.