Grey mangrove
Grey mangrove is the most common and widespread mangrove found within intertidal zones across Australia, and throughout the world. Growing to a height of 3-10m, they thrive best in estuaries with a mix of fresh and salt water. They excrete excess salt through their long thick leaves, and absorb oxygen through their aerial root system.
Read more about Grey mangrove
Also known as white mangrove, it occurs in saltwater swamps and estuaries in coastal NSW national parks. These trees can tolerate extremely salty water by excreting excess salt through their large thick leaves. However, grey mangrove thrives best in brackish waters – a mix of salt and fresh water.
Grey mangrove grows as a small shrub or tree to 3-10m, with a sprawling mass of branches. It often flowers all year long, producing yellow fruit that easily self-seed. The mangrove’s unique aerial root system extends above the waterline, allowing it to absorb oxygen.
Plant facts
- Common name
- Grey mangrove
- Scientific name
- Avicennia marina
- Conservation status in NSW
- Protected