Pigeon Plum

(Coccoloba diversifolia)

Pigeon Plum (Coccoloba diversifolia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Coccoloba diversifolia, commonly known as Pigeon Plum, is an evergreen tree or large shrub native to coastal hammocks, maritime forests, and sandy scrub areas in the Caribbean, Central America, Florida and Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 10 meters (33 feet), but can occasionally reach up to 18 meters (59 feet) tall. The Pigeon Plum has a broad, rounded crown with leathery, dark green leaves that are variable in shape. Its flowers are small and greenish-white, borne on slender spikes in the spring, and are not particularly showy. The fruit is a small, dark purple drupe with an edible fleshy perianth, ripening in the fall and attracting wildlife.

Pigeon Plum is valued for its hardiness and adaptability, making it suitable for urban planting, coastal landscaping, and as a windbreak due to its resistance to high winds, salt, and drought. It is also appreciated for its attractive bark and edible fruit. This species requires full sun to part shade and can tolerate a range of water conditions, but prefers well-drained soils. It is not tolerant of hard frost, which limits its use in colder climates. While generally pest-free, it can suffer from root rot in overly wet conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 15-25 feet
  • Width: 20-35 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Coastal hammocks, maritime forests, and sandy scrub areas

Other Names

Common Names: Tietongue, Pigeon-Plum, Snailseed, Tie-Tongue, Dove-Plum, Barbados Grape Tree, Pigeon Seagrape, Picurero, Uvilla, Guayabillo

Scientific Names: , Coccoloba diversifolia, Coccoloba laurifolia, Coccoloba floridana, Coccoloba curtisii, Coccoloba cumbreana, Coccoloba cubensis, Coccoloba lancifolia, Coccoloba oligocarpa, Coccoloba curtisiae

GBIF Accepted Name: Coccoloba diversifolia Jacq.