There are three varieties of mangroves that are native to Florida, none of which are in the same botanical family. Red mangroves are salt excluders — the salt in seawater is prevented from entering the plant at the root interface, so only freshwater enters the tree. An acre of red mangroves can shed up to three tons of leaves per year. White mangroves (Laguncularia racemosa) grow furthest upland in the mangrove fringe and do not like their “feet” to be as wet as red and black mangroves. You can also contact the Natural Resources Department at 239-472-3700 to discuss mangrove trimming regulations or schedule an on-site meeting.