Coccoloba

Coccoloba is a genus of about 150 species of plants in the family Polygonaceae. These plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, with the highest diversity found in the Caribbean and South America. Coccoloba species are typically trees or shrubs, though some are vines. They are commonly known by the vernacular name sea grape, due to the appearance of their fruit clusters.

The leaves of Coccoloba are generally large, leathery, and ovate to obovate, often with prominent veins. They can be arranged alternately or in whorls along the stem. The flowers are usually small and inconspicuous, often greenish or white, and are borne in terminal or axillary spikes or racemes. The fruit is a drupe, typically round or oval, and can range in color from green to purple or red when ripe. These fruits grow in large clusters, resembling grapes, which is the source of their common name.

Several Coccoloba species are cultivated for their ornamental value, especially along coastlines, as they are tolerant of salt spray and sandy soils. Some species are also valued for their edible fruits, which can be used to make jellies, jams, or wines. The wood of some larger species has been used for lumber and furniture. Coccoloba uvifera, the seagrape, is one of the most well-known species and is widely planted in tropical landscaping.