What is pigeon plum?

Pigeon Plum (Coccoloba diversifolia), often referred to as Doveplum or Seagrape, is an evergreen tree originating in central and southern Florida and the Caribbean. The tree, which is part of the buckwheat family, is able to reach a height of 80 feet (about 24.4 meters), but usually moves between 30 and 40 feet (about 9 to 12 meters) in height. Pigeon plums contain small, light green flowers, along with an edible, purple fruit in the shape of a pear.

The tree flowers bloom in spring, while the fruit ripens at the end of summer or early autumn. The fruit of pigeons is consumed by various types of wild animals. The tree acquires its name because pigeons are common consumers of dark colored fruit. Other creatures that feed on fruit and seeds include raccoon, small rodents, robins and woodpecker. For human consumption, it is also safe round, fleshy fruit, which is half an inch (about 1.3 centimeters).

Pigeon Plum contains green, elongated and leather leaves that usually move between threesEMI and four inches (about 7.6 to 10.2 centimeters) in length. Tree leaves are capable of growing up to eight inches (about 20 centimeters). The front of the leaves are bright green, while the underside usually looks much paler. When the pigeon plum is young, his leaves are much larger to collect as much sun as possible. The leaves reduce the size as the tree grows higher and accumulates more sunlight.

thin bark of pigeon plums is dark red or brown. The bark also has a smooth texture, but it can develop a more scaly texture as the tree ages. It is not uncommon for the bark to fall and reveal a deep purple color below it. Tree wood is often fragile, but sometimes used to make furniture or cabinets.

Pigeon Plum grows best in a damp, well -drained soil in areas that receive full sun or partial shade. The tree creates a good shadow tree with thick branches and oftenIt is used in landscaping or is planted in medium strips along the highways. Pigeon plums usually contain more strains that grow in parallel with each other. Trees are not affected by high wind, drought and salty conditions, so they can grow in sandy rocky areas along tidal areas. The species is often used as a hurricane barrier in coastal areas.