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Red Mangrove
Rhizophora mangle · Tropical & Subtropical Coastlines (Americas, West Africa)
Species Profile
Red Mangrove
Scientific Name
Rhizophora mangle
Rhizophora mangle
Native Region
Tropical & Subtropical Coastlines (Americas, West Africa)
Tropical & Subtropical Coastlines (Americas, West Africa)
Climate Suitability
Tropical · Coastal · Wetland · Native
Tropical · Coastal · Wetland · Native
Growth Rate
Moderate
Moderate
Mature Height
6–20m
6–20m
Typical Lifespan
50–100 years
50–100 years
Root System
Distinctive arching prop roots that stabilise coastal sediment and tolerate saltwater immersion
Distinctive arching prop roots that stabilise coastal sediment and tolerate saltwater immersion
Canopy Spread
4–8m
4–8m
Water Needs
High; adapted to tidal, brackish, and saltwater conditions
High; adapted to tidal, brackish, and saltwater conditions
Soil Preference
Waterlogged, saline coastal mud and sediment
Waterlogged, saline coastal mud and sediment
Sunlight Needs
Full sun
Full sun
On Social
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Planting Guide
Growing The Red Mangrove
Only suited to tidal, brackish coastal sites -- requires regular saltwater inundation and waterlogged sediment, conditions that would kill most other trees. Not a garden or inland planting species; restoration projects should follow local mangrove-rehabilitation guidance.
Do
- Plant only in tidal, brackish coastal zones
- Follow local mangrove restoration guidance for spacing and site prep
Don't
- Don't plant inland or in fresh-water-only sites
- Don't disturb prop roots once established -- they stabilise the surrounding sediment
Why It Matters
Benefits Of The Red Mangrove
- One of the most effective natural coastal storm and erosion barriers
- Critical nursery habitat for fish, crabs, and coastal wildlife
- Among the highest per-hectare carbon storage of any ecosystem
- Filters and stabilises coastal sediment and water quality