Grey mangrove (Avicennia marina)

Product description

This mangrove species is found along the coasts of the Indian Ocean in Africa, Asia and Australia. There, it can grow up to 10 metres tall with a light grey, smooth bark. The aerial roots grow upright from the soil and provide sufficient oxygen in the muddy soil, but also anchor the tree when the seawater flows around it. The thick, shiny leaves have a hairy underside where excess salt is secreted. After flowering, fruits appear with one large seed that, like that of other mangroves, germinates on the tree. After germination, it falls from the tree and can survive floating in seawater for up to five months.

The species can be kept as a houseplant. A temperature of 20-30°C is optimal, but slightly lower temperatures are also possible. Ensure a sunny location and moist or wet soil. Initially, seedlings grow best in fresh water, but later on, brackish water seems to be preferred.
 
Sowing description: Sow the germinated seed directly into moist soil. A temperature of 25-30°C is optimal for initial development.