Sea Grapes are a salt-tolerant coastal fruiting plant with large leathery round leaves and clusters of grape-like fruit that ripen red to purple. This tropical shrub or small tree is native to the Caribbean and parts of tropical America and is valued for erosion control, shade, and edible fruit. The fruit has a musky-sweet flavour and is often used fresh, in jams, or wine.
Features
Ideal prune height: 1.5–3m
pH range: 6.0–7.5
Sun preference: Full sun
Minimum pot size by year 5: 30L
Time to fruit: 3–5 years
Harvest period: Late summer to early autumn
Notable traits: Salt-tolerant, coastal wind-hardy, edible fruit, ornamental foliage
Sea Grapes grow best in sandy, well-drained soils but adapt to a range of textures. They thrive in coastal locations with good drainage and plenty of sunlight. Tolerant of drought and wind once established. Regular pruning can keep them as a hedge or dense screen. Protect young plants from frost.
Excellent for beachside gardens, permaculture zones near water, or as a novelty fruit tree in pots. Both striking and productive, this is a hardy choice for tough, salty conditions.
Keywords: Coccoloba uvifera, sea grape tree, edible coastal hedge, salt-tolerant fruit, tropical seaside plants, grow grapes by the beach, rare fruit Perth.