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Cocoplum Chrysobalanus icaco Varieties
In the South Florida area are two main types of cocoplum with
different growth habits.
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Redtip Cocoplum is the pineland variety of
Chrysobalanus icaco.
We no longer grow redtip cocoplum, since it is commonly
found at just about every other nursery in town. Still, here is some
information that you might appreciate.
It grows in slightly wetter areas, to
heights up to approximately 10 feet. The more sunlight they get, the
fuller they will be.
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Any questions about how this variety got its name? |
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Flowers are tiny things, not too showy, but they have a
dainty, sweet fragrance that adds a thrill to a summer day.
Pollinators come to sample the nectar they provide. |
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Fruits are dark blue and just as tasty as their peachy
counterparts above. Fruits are ripe now. Go on, get jamming. |
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Redtip cocoplum is one of the most commonly-used native
plants. You see it all over the place, probably without realizing
it. This is because it is usually box-cut to fit in narrow places in
parking lots and other roadside areas. |
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Note the bare places in the photo above.
That is a result of an automatic irrigation system spraying too much water
in that particular spot.
At left is a close-up of the hedge above. The
leaves are torn and chopped before they can develop the red foliage. The
plant never really achieves a high level of health, since it is always
under attack. |
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At right is an example of how design principles from
ancient Europe continue to influence landscapers in the New World.
Redtip cocoplums are box cut at a height of 36 inches,
which is the natural height of horizontal cocoplum.
In locations like this, where space is limited,
horizontal cocoplum would be a better choice. |
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At right, is horizontal cocoplum, 36 inches high.
It makes a great border plant. Naturally trim branches that grow
into areas of traffic, and it will lead a healthy long life .
Below is a redtip cocoplum, allowed to express itself to
its greatest ability. It's about 9 feet tall, full of red tips and
berries. |
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