Coccoloba uvifera ‘Variegata’
 
Common Names Variegated Seagrape
 
Zones 10a–11
 
A rare and visually arresting cultivar of the native seagrape, Coccoloba uvifera ‘Variegata’ features broad, leathery leaves marbled with creamy white, pale yellow, or silvery green. Native to coastal dunes and beaches throughout Florida, the Caribbean, and tropical America, this variegated form adds ornamental flair while retaining the species’ legendary salt and wind tolerance.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Multi-stemmed shrub or small tree; vase-shaped canopy
Height: 15–25 ft (4.5–7.5 m); spread 20–30 ft (6–9 m)
Trunk: Smooth gray with light patches; often twisted or leaning in coastal wind
Leaves: Broadly orbiculate; 8–12 in (20–30 cm) wide; leathery with prominent red veins; variegation ranges from creamy white to pale yellow or silver; new growth bronze
Inflorescence: Ivory flowers on 12–18 in (30–45 cm) racemes; inconspicuous but fragrant
Fruit: Green grape-like clusters ripening to deep purple; edible; used for jelly and wildlife forage
Ecology: Native to coastal beaches and dunes; stabilizes sand and tolerates salt spray, wind, and drought
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part shade
Watering: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Soil: Sandy, well-drained; tolerates limestone and poor fertility
Temperature: Sensitive to frost; protect below 35°F (1.5°C)
Humidity: Tolerant of dry and humid air
Propagation: By cuttings; seed propagation not true to variegation
Tolerance: Salt, wind, drought, urban conditions
 
Landscape Use Ideal for coastal gardens, specimen plantings, and collectors of rare foliage. Adds contrast and texture to tropical borders. Pairs well with Thrinax radiata, Conocarpus erectus ‘Sericeus’, and Acoelorrhaphe wrightii.