Trees and Shrubs

Live Oaks dominate the canopy of the maritime hammock forest.

NPS

Trees and shrubs are perennial plants distinguished from other types of plants by virtue of their woody roots, trunks, and stems. Woody material is hard, rigid and composed primarily of cellulose (a carbohydrate) and lignin (a bio-molecule). Some of the more common trees found at Fort Matanzas are: eastern red cedar, southern magnolia, slash pine, and live oak.

 

Live Oaks

A canopy of Southern Live Oak trees near the Visitor Center and parking area of Fort Matanzas

Mangroves

Mangroves dominate much of the salt marsh.

 

Yaupon Holly

Southeastern Indians made a strong tea from the leaves of this shrub or small tree

Sabal Palms

Several Sabal Palms tower over the overgrown dunes