Coccoloba uvifera

Seagrape, also known as “Coccoloba uvifera,” is a versatile tree native to North America. It is favored for cultivation due to its adaptability and unique characteristics. Here’s a more conversational breakdown of how to grow Seagrape.

1. Seagrape is a medium-sized tree that can reach heights of 25 to 30 feet. It typically grows in a multi-trunk vase shape, but it can be pruned to form a single trunk. The tree’s evergreen leaves are large, round, and leathery, with striking red veins. During the cold winter season, the leaves turn red and drop, only to be replaced by beautiful bronze-colored new growth. Seagrape produces small, inconspicuous creamy white flowers on long stalks in winter. Female trees bear fruit, which starts off green and ripens into deep purple by the end of summer. The fruit, about 3/4 inch in diameter, is delicious and often used to make jams. Birds and squirrels are attracted to the fruit as well.
2. General Info:

• Scientific name: Coccoloba uvifera
• Common Name: Seagrape
• Family: Polygonaceae
• Native to: North America

4. Leaves:

• Leaf Arrangement: Alternating
• Leaf Type: Simple
• Leaf Margin: Smooth
• Leaf Shape: Round
• Leaf Veins: Like feathers or a net
• Leaf Type and Persistence: Broad leaves that stay green all year round
• Leaf Length: 8 to 12 inches
• Leaf Color: Green
• Fall Color: Red
• Fall Characteristics: Nothing special

5. Flowers:

• Flower Color: White
• Flower Characteristics: Not very noticeable; blooms in winter

6. Fruits:

• Fruit Shape: Round
• Fruit Length: 0.5 to 1 inch
• Fruit Covering: Fleshy
• Fruit Color: Blue; Purple
• Fruit Characteristics: Attracts birds; attracts squirrels and other animals; good for eating; drops a lot of leaves from fruits, branches, or leaves; looks pretty

7. Trunk and Branches:

• Trunk/Bark/Branches: The bark is thin and can get damaged easily; as the tree grows, the branches hang down and need to be pruned for cars or people to pass under; usually has multiple trunks, but you can train it to have just one; the trunk stands out; Seagrape prefers having multiple trunks, but it can grow with just one; no thorns
• Pruning Requirement: You need to trim it to make it grow strong
• Branch Color: Brown
• Branch Thickness: Thick

8. Cultivation:

• Light Requirement: Can grow in places with some shade or lots of sun
• Soil Adaptability: Can handle clay, loam, sand; likes acidic or alkaline soil; needs good drainage
• Drought Tolerance: Can handle dry periods
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Usually doesn’t get bothered by bugs or diseases