This variable shrub to small tree may have multi-stems or solitary grey trunk with spreading branches forming a vase-shape habit. It has rounded dark green leathery leaves and the small saucer-shape flowers are followed by round fruit.

Hardiness zones 10 to 12

Coccoloba uviferais naturally found in the West Indies from the Bahamas to Florida, central Mexico and extending to South America growing on the coast and inland. In coastal situations the plant develops a multi-stemmed shrub and inland it becomes erect small tree.

It grows on most well drained sandy soils that are moderately fertile and tolerates saline conditions and grows in an open to exposed sunny to semi shaded position and is drought tolerant but is frost tender.

Sea Grape is grown for its foliage and the fruit. It is planted along garden borders for screening or as a barrier plant and may be trimmed to form a hedge. It is suitable coastal regions establishing in 2-3 years and is moderately long lived. This shrub is also grown as a container plant and used as a bonsai subject. ID 3274

Coccoloba (KOH-koh-LOH-bah) uvifera(yoo-VIF-eh-rah)

Polygonaceae (POL-ee-gon-AY-see-ee)