Sea Grape
Coccoloba uvifera
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Description
Sea Grape (Coccoloba uvifera) is a versatile tropical tree or shrub native to coastal areas of the Caribbean and Central and South America. It plays a crucial role in coastal ecosystems by stabilizing sandy soils and preventing erosion, making it invaluable for coastal restoration projects. In agroecology, Sea Grape serves as a windbreak and provides habitat for wildlife, including birds and beneficial insects. It is an excellent choice for living fences or hedges, enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Historically, the plant has been used by indigenous peoples for its edible fruits and medicinal properties. In a food forest system, Sea Grape can function as a mid-canopy layer, providing shade and organic matter through leaf litter. It pairs well with other coastal species like beach morning glory and sea oats, which further stabilize the soil and support a diverse ecosystem.
Growing Details
Sea Grape thrives in sandy, well-drained soils and is highly tolerant of salt spray and wind, making it ideal for coastal planting. It prefers full sun and requires minimal maintenance once established. Propagation is typically done through seeds or cuttings. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching with seaweed or other organic materials can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include beach morning glo
Tags
Hedge
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Building Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Coccoloba uvifera</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 areas of the Caribbean, Cen
applicable geo region: Tropical coastal regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of March for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of Jun for 90 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(3/5)
edible uses: The fruits of the Sea Grape are edible and can be eaten raw or used to make jams, jellies, and wines. They have a sweet-tart flavor and are often enjoyed fresh or processed. The fruit is typically available in late summer to early fall. Nutritionally, they are a source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Caution should be taken as the fruit may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Sea Grape has been used in folk medicine to treat ailments such as diarrhea and sore throats. The leaves and bark contain tannins, which have astringent properties. Decoctions made from the bark can be used as a topical treatment for skin conditions. However, internal use should be approached with caution and preferably under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
health concerns: Potential allergic reactions to the fruit in sensitive individuals.
other uses: The wood of Sea Grape is sometimes used for firewood and small construction projects. The plant is also valued in landscaping for its ornamental appeal, with its large, glossy leaves and attractive fruit clusters.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Coccoloba uvifera
common names: Sea Grape; Bay Grape; Uva de Playa
family: Polygonaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Coccoloba
Growing Conditions
area needed: 4.0 m
spacing: 4.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: High
hardness:
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(10/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Medium
max height: 8.0 m
max width: 6.0 m
soil preference:
Light (Sandy)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Dioecious
growth details: Sea Grape thrives in sandy, well-drained soils and is highly tolerant of salt spray and wind, making it ideal for coastal planting. It prefers full sun and requires minimal maintenance once established. Propagation is typically done through seeds or cuttings. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching with seaweed or other organic materials can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include beach morning glo
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include scale insects and caterpillars. Natural pest management strategies include introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control scale populations. Neem oil or garlic spray can be used to deter caterpillars. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes and other pests.
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