mangroves

Mangrove trees are all over Florida wetlands. I always thought they were basically a weed but they aren't. they are a very important part of the ecosystem and become home to many species of fish, insects, birds, and other plants.
they grow and spread to huge trees. here is my husband holding onto one of the "feelers" that will connect eventually with the ground and sprout up another clump of trees.

I spotted this new plant only 3 inches high along the way. someday it will be as big as the others. A seed pod can float for months before taking root and sprouting.