Sea Grape (Coccoloba uvifera): Coastal Tree with Edible Grapes

Coccoloba uvifera, the Sea Grape, is a iconic coastal tree of the tropics, with large, round, leathery leaves with red veins, and clusters of edible, grape-like fruits. It's a keystone species for beach stabilization.

Botanical Profile

Culture & Coast

Native to coastal beaches of tropical America and the Caribbean, this evergreen tree reaches 25–50 feet tall (often smaller and shrubby on exposed shores). The leaves are 8–12 inches wide, circular, with prominent red veins. Small, white, fragrant flowers in spikes precede the 0.75-inch fruits, ripening from green to purple—edible, sweet-tart, used for jelly and wine.

It demands full sun, sandy, well-drained soil, and is highly salt- and wind-tolerant. Hardy in zones 10–11. A premier tree for beachfront properties, dune stabilization, and seaside gardens. The fruits attract wildlife. A true coastal signature plant.