The Sea Grape (Coccoloba uvifera) is a distinctive native plant found along the shores of South Florida, the Caribbean, and parts of Central and South America. With its oversized, round leaves and clusters of grape-like fruit, this salt-tolerant shrub or small tree is a favorite in coastal landscapes. It’s both beautiful and functional—providing windbreaks, dune stabilization, and a bit of wild, tropical flair.

Sea Grape can be grown as a large, sprawling shrub or pruned into a single-trunked tree, often reaching 15 to 25 feet tall. Its broad, leathery leaves can grow up to 10 inches across and turn shades of red, bronze, and orange in cooler months, creating unexpected seasonal color in a tropical setting. In late spring or summer, it produces small white flowers that develop into dangling clusters of fruit resembling grapes. These fruits start out green and ripen to a rich purple, attracting birds, raccoons, and even beachgoers looking for a tart, edible snack.

Tough and low-maintenance, the Sea Grape thrives in sandy, salty conditions and is an important part of Florida’s native coastal ecosystems. It’s often used to prevent erosion, create privacy hedges, or simply add a natural, seaside look to landscapes.