Beach Cordia

(Cordia subcordata)

Beach Cordia (Cordia subcordata)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Cordia subcordata, commonly known as Beach Cordia, is an evergreen flowering tree native to coastal forests, sandy shores, and mangrove edges in the Indo-Pacific region, including East Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Northern Australia, and the Pacific Islands. It typically grows to 7–10 m (23–33 ft) in height but can reach up to 15 m (49 ft). The tree has a spreading crown with ovate, leathery leaves that are 8–20 cm (3.1–7.9 in) long and 5–13 cm (2.0–5.1 in) wide. The showy tubular flowers, 2.5–4 cm (0.98–1.57 in) in diameter, are borne in cymes or panicles. Petals are a striking orange, while the sepals are pale green. Flowering occurs throughout the year, with a peak in spring, attracting various pollinators.

Beach Cordia is valued for its ornamental flowers, drought tolerance, and adaptability to coastal conditions, making it suitable for seaside landscaping, urban planting, and as a shade tree in tropical and subtropical regions. It requires full sun exposure and thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy soils with low to moderate water requirements. The species is relatively low-maintenance and resistant to pests and diseases. However, it is sensitive to frost and should not be planted in areas with cold winter climates. Beach Cordia’s wood is also used for carving and in traditional medicine.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 23-33 feet
  • Width: 15-25 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Orange
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Coastal forests, sandy shores, and mangrove edges in the Indo-Pacific region

Other Names

Common Names: Kou, Mareer, Marer, Kerosene Wood, Island-Walnut, Beach Cordial, Sea Trumpet, Faux-Ébène, Noyer D’Océanie

Scientific Names: , Cordia subcordata, Cordia hexandra, Cordia orientalis, Cordia banalo, Cordia campanulata, Cordia ignota, Cordia marchionica, Cordia moluccana, Cordia rumphii

GBIF Accepted Name: Cordia subcordata Lam.