Red Mangrove
(Rhizophora stylosa)

This is probably the best known mangrove plant because of its distinctive root system and widespread distribution. It can grow to 20 m tall.

Roots: Prop roots.

Leaves: Leaves about 10 cm long which have a lighter green undersurface covered with brown speckles. Leaves are arranged in clumps at the end of branches.

Flowers and Fruit: Small, white flowers which are pollinated by wind or insects. The propagules are 1-2 cm in diameter, 20-40 cm long and tapered at one end.

Bark: Rough, brown to dark grey bark.

Similar species: The Tall-stilted Mangrove (Rhizophora apiculata) has more pointed leaves which lack the brown speckles. Rhizophora mucronata has larger leaves and a propagule about twice the length. Rhizophora stylosa and Rhizophora apiculata interbreed to produce a hybrid called Rhizophora x lamarkii.

Location: Occurs low in the intertidal zone, where its roots are submerged during high tides.