Chrysobalanus icaco

Horizontal, or Beach, Cocoplum is found in coastal areas throughout the Tropical Americas.  It has a low-growing, sprawling habit, and will fill in beds in sunny, well-drained locations.  It typically stays under 3 feet in height.  

The sweet fruits turn from creamy tones to pleasing peach.  Cocoplum jam used to be made by the earliest arrivals to the low-lying Florida peninsula.

Redtip Cocoplum is the pineland variety of Chrysobalanus icaco.  It grows in slightly wetter areas, to heights up to approximately 10 feet.  The more sunlight they get, the fuller they will be.   

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.

Fruits are dark blue and just as tasty as their peachy counterparts above.  Fruits are ripe now.  Go on, get jamming.

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.

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.

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. 

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 ablity.  It's about 9 feet tall, full of redtips and berries.