Avicennia germinans, the black mangrove,[3] is a shrub or small tree growing up to 12 meters (39 feet) in the acanthus family, Acanthaceae.

Seeds are encased in a fruit, which reveals the germinated seedling when it falls into the water.

The three species work together to stabilize the shoreline, provide buffers from storm surges, trap debris and detritus brought in by tides, and provide feeding, breeding, and nursery grounds for a great variety of fish, shellfish, birds, and other wildlife.

It is less tolerant of highly saline conditions than certain other species that occur in mangrove ecosystems.

[4] It can reach 10–15 m (33–49 ft) in height, although it is a small shrub in cooler regions of its range.