Sea Grape Bush

Sea grape is an evergreen coastal shrub or small tree with large, round leaves and edible grape-like fruit. It can reach 35–50 feet as a tree, but pruning can maintain it as a hedge or screen in a warm coastal landscape. ## Coastal value and fruit The [UF/IFAS species profile](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST175) describes cream-colored spring flowers, fruit that ripens from green to reddish purple in early summer through early fall, and fruit that attracts birds. The [UF/IFAS Pasco Extension](https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/2025/07/10/exploring-floridas-natives-seagrape/) notes that the berries can be eaten fresh or made into jelly and that the plant helps stabilize dunes. A [UF/IFAS Miami-Dade Extension article](https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/miamidadeco/2022/03/29/the-all-mighty-sea-grape/) describes its importance on foredunes and its salt tolerance. ## Siting Plant in full sun or partial shade in well-drained sandy soil. UF/IFAS lists USDA zones 10A–11 and high drought and salt-spray tolerance. Its broad evergreen leaves and branching form suit coastal planting, specimen use, or a pruned hedge or screen. ## Maintenance Water until established, then prune to train well-attached trunks and maintain the desired size. UF/IFAS recommends structural pruning during the first years; established trees need occasional pruning. Large leaves and fruit may create seasonal litter, and the fruit is borne on female plants.