Seagrape

( Coccoloba uvifera )

Landscape Index Page Native landscape trees Native landscape shrubs

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Family - Polygonaceae

Natural Habitat - Dunes, coastal hammocks, coastal strand.

USDA Planting zones - 10, 11

Description - Seagrape is a native perennial shrub or tree to a height of 25 - 30 feet with an equal spread, usually with multiple low branching trunks.

Leaves are broad, dark green, 8 to 12 inches almost circular in shape with distinctive red veins. New leaf growth in the spring is an attractive shiny bronze color.

Ivory-white flowers on racemes up to 30 inches long, followed by large clusters of 3/4 inch diameter grape-like berries on female trees. Males produce no fruit.

Landscape Uses - Specimen tree, fruit tree, screen, buffer zone tree.

Culture - Seagrape is tolerant of a range of soil types and pH, but grows best in full sun exposure & sandy, well drained soils. Established trees are drought and very salt resistant, making Seagrape an excellent choice for seaside landscapes.

Propagation is by seed or cuttings. Requires initial hand pruning to shape, thereafter is basically maintenance free.