PLANT

Coccoloba uvifera is a species of flowering plant in the buckwheat family, Polygonaceae, native to the coastal beaches of tropical America and the Caribbean, including South Florida, the Bahamas, the Greater and Lesser Antilles and Bermuda. Common names include seagrape and baygrape .

FRUIT

At the end of summer, it bears green fruit, about 2 cm in diameter, in large grape-like clusters. The fruit gradually ripens to a purplish colour. Each contains a large pit that makes up most of the volume of the fruit.

PROPERTIES

Coccoloba uvifera is a popular ornamental plant in South Florida yards. It serves as a dune stabiliser and protective habitat for small animals. The tall sea grape plants behind the beaches help prevent sea turtles from being distracted by the lights of nearby buildings. The sap has been used for dyeing and tanning skin. The wood has occasionally been used in furniture, as firewood or to make charcoal. The fruits of the sea grape can be eaten raw, cooked in jellies and jams or fermented in sea grape wine.

CULTIVATION

Capable of surviving up to about 2°C, the tree cannot survive frost. The leaves turn reddish before withering. Its seeds must be planted immediately, as unlike most plants, they cannot withstand storage for future planting.
C. uvifera is wind-resistant, moderately shade-tolerant and highly salt-tolerant, so it is often planted to stabilise beach edges; it is also planted as an ornamental shrub. The fruit is very tasty and can be used for jam or eaten straight from the tree.