Coco plum

Cocoplum (Chrysobalanus icaco) is an evergreen shrub or small tree with white flowers and edible fruit that may mature white, pink-blushed, or purple. Coastal and inland forms differ substantially in growth habit and mature size, so the uncultivated species record should not imply one selected form. ## Form and Landscape Use UF/IFAS describes a low, spreading coastal form that is usually no more than six feet tall and a faster, upright inland form that commonly reaches 15–25 feet or more. Cocoplum works as a hedge or ground cover, and its evergreen foliage supports year-round structure. The [UF/IFAS guide](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP553) also documents its white flowers, edible fruit, and high salt tolerance. ## Growing Conditions Grow in full sun or moderate to light shade. The species tolerates a range from acidic to alkaline soils and clay to sand; established plants may tolerate seasonal freshwater flooding, though newly installed plants are more vulnerable to saturated soil. Flowering occurs mostly from winter through summer, with the main bloom often in late spring. Florida plantings are reported in USDA zones 9b and warmer. ## Maintenance Allow for the selected form's eventual spread before planting. Water newly installed plants carefully in wet soils, and prune as needed to maintain a hedge or ground-cover outline.