Sea Grape
Coccoloba uvifera
The Sea Grape, or Coccoloba uvifera, is the quintessential coastal evergreen of Sarasota, Bradenton, and Anna Maria Island. Instantly recognizable by its large, leathery, circular leaves with striking red veins, the Sea Grape offers a bold, tropical texture that is unlike any other tree in Florida. While it is often seen as a sprawling shrub along the dunes of Longboat Key, it can be beautifully trained into a multi-trunk or single-trunk tree for residential landscapes in Lakewood Ranch and Palmetto. In late summer, it produces drooping clusters of fruit that resemble grapes, which transition from green to a deep purple, providing a feast for local wildlife and even the occasional adventurous home cook.
Why the Sea Grape Thrives in Florida
The Sea Grape is a Florida native “super-plant” when it comes to coastal resilience. It is one of the most salt-tolerant species available, thriving in the salt spray and sandy, alkaline soils of Siesta Key and Venice. For residents in Sun City and Ellenton, the Sea Grape is prized for its massive leaves, which provide excellent privacy screening and wind protection. It is extremely drought-tolerant once established and thrives in the intense, full sun of our region. Because it is a native species, it is also a cornerstone of the local ecosystem, providing food and shelter for birds, squirrels, and even the endangered gopher tortoise.
Plant Specifications
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 10A – 11 (Cold sensitive; best in coastal/southern parts of our region) |
| Max Height at Maturity | 15 – 25 Feet (If trained as a tree) |
| Light Conditions | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Salt Tolerance | Exceptional (The “Gold Standard” for beachfront planting) |
| Drought Tolerance | High (Once established; very low-maintenance) |
Coastal & Tropical Design in Sarasota & Manatee
The Sea Grape is a versatile tool for creating a private, tropical oasis. Our design team at Albright Landscaping often uses them in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch to:
- Create Living Screens: Using their large leaves to block views of neighboring houses or utility boxes.
- Sculptural Specimens: Pruning them into “architectural” multi-trunk trees that show off their smooth, colorful bark.
- Low-Maintenance Borders: Providing a hardy, evergreen backdrop for colorful hibiscus or crotons.
We specialize in sourcing “tree-form” Sea Grapes for properties across Sarasota County, ensuring they are planted and pruned to maximize their tropical aesthetic. Whether you are landscaping a beachfront estate in Anna Maria or adding a touch of the coast to your Parrish backyard, the Sea Grape is a durable and beautiful choice.
