Cocoplum is a resilient shrub native to coastal regions of the Americas and West Africa, thriving in sandy and saline soils. It plays a crucial role in agroecological systems as a mid-layer plant in food forests, providing habitat and food for wildlife. Its dense foliage serves as an effective windbreak and erosion control, particularly in coastal and sandy environments. Historically, Cocoplum has been used by indigenous communities for its edible fruits and potential medicinal properties. In regenerative agriculture, it is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and enhance biodiversity. Cocoplum is often integrated into guilds with nitrogen-fixing plants like sea grape (Coccoloba uvifera) and ground covers such as beach morning glory (Ipomoea pes-caprae) to enhance soil health and ecosystem resilience.
Growing Details
Cocoplum thrives in sandy, well-drained soils and is highly tolerant of salt spray, making it ideal for coastal areas. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve water retention and nutrient availability. Mulching with seaweed or other organic materials helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as sea grape and beach morning glory can enhance soil health and biodiversity. Avoid overwatering once established, as Cocoplum is drought-tolera
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Chrysobalanus icaco</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to coastal regions of the Americas and
applicable geo region: Tropical and subtropical regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of March for 60 days
Harvest:
middle
of May for 90 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(3/5)
edible uses: The fruit of the Cocoplum is edible and can be consumed fresh or processed into jams and jellies. It has a sweet, mild flavor and is often used in desserts. The fruit is typically available from late spring to early fall. Nutritionally, it provides a source of vitamins and antioxidants. Caution is advised as the seeds should not be consumed.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Cocoplum has been used in folk medicine to address digestive issues and as a mild diuretic. While scientific evidence is limited, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using it for medicinal purposes.
health concerns: The seeds of Cocoplum should not be consumed as they may contain compounds that are not safe for ingestion.
other uses: Cocoplum is commonly used as a hedge or windbreak due to its dense foliage and resistance to salt spray. It also contributes to soil stabilization and habitat creation in coastal landscapes.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Chrysobalanus icaco
common names: Cocoplum; Paradise Plum; Icaco
family: Chrysobalanaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Chrysobalanus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 1.5 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: High
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(10/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 3.0 m
max width: 2.0 m
soil preference:
Light (Sandy)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Cocoplum thrives in sandy, well-drained soils and is highly tolerant of salt spray, making it ideal for coastal areas. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve water retention and nutrient availability. Mulching with seaweed or other organic materials helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as sea grape and beach morning glory can enhance soil health and biodiversity. Avoid overwatering once established, as Cocoplum is drought-tolera
Potential Disturbances: Cocoplum is generally pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by scale insects and aphids. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray to manage scale insects.
Growth Timeline
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