Coccoloba uvifera

🌿 Botanical Overview

• Scientific Name: Coccoloba uvifera
• Common Names: Sea Grape, Uva de Playa
• Family: Polygonaceae (Buckwheat family)
• Native Range: Coastal areas of the Caribbean, Florida, Central and South America

🌼 Description

• Size: Large shrub or small tree, typically 2–8 meters (6–26 ft) tall; can reach up to 15 meters (50 ft)
• Leaves: Large, round, leathery leaves with prominent red veins; turn red before dropping
• Flowers: Small, white to greenish, in clusters; mildly fragrant
• Fruit: Grape-like clusters of purple, edible fruits that ripen in late summer

🌍 Habitat and Growth

• Climate: Tropical and subtropical; highly salt-tolerant
• Soil: Prefers sandy, well-drained soils; thrives in coastal environments
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Hardiness: Wind and salt spray tolerant; drought-resistant once established