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Description
Coccoloba diversifolia, commonly known as Pigeon Plum or Dove Plum, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. The plant is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, and can be found in a wide range of habitats, from coastal areas to mountainous regions. The plant is popular for its attractive foliage and edible fruits, which are a valuable food source for wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Coccoloba |
Appearance
Coccoloba diversifolia is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 25 feet tall. The plant has a round, spreading crown and a thick trunk with a rough, gray-brown bark. The leaves are large, glossy, and dark green in color, with a distinctive heart shape and a smooth, waxy texture. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and are followed by clusters of small, round fruits that are green when unripe and turn reddish-purple when mature.
Care Guide
Coccoloba diversifolia is a relatively easy plant to care for, and can be grown in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: Coccoloba diversifolia prefers moist, well-drained soil, so make sure to water it regularly, especially during dry periods.Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer, applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions.Soil: Coccoloba diversifolia prefers acidic to neutral soil, and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade, and can tolerate some shade.Hardiness Zones: Coccoloba diversifolia is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Coccoloba diversifolia is generally a disease-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases, including:Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant’s leaves, causing them to wilt and deform.Spider Mites: These pests can cause the plant’s leaves to become speckled and discolored.Root Rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant’s roots to rot, leading to wilting and death.
Habitat
Coccoloba diversifolia is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, and can be found in a wide range of habitats, from coastal areas to mountainous regions. The plant is commonly found in coastal areas, where it grows in sandy soils and is tolerant of salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Are the fruits of Coccoloba diversifolia edible?
A: Yes, the fruits of Coccoloba diversifolia are edible and are a valuable food source for wildlife.Q: Is Coccoloba diversifolia a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Coccoloba diversifolia is a popular landscaping plant due to its attractive foliage and tolerance of a wide range of growing conditions.Q: Does Coccoloba diversifolia require pruning?
A: Coccoloba diversifolia does not require pruning, but can be pruned to maintain its shape or to remove damaged or dead branches.Q: Can Coccoloba diversifolia be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Coccoloba diversifolia can be propagated from cuttings taken in the early spring or summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Coccoloba diversifolia:
- Coccoloba uvifera
- Coccoloba pubescens
- Coccoloba caracasana
References
- “Coccoloba diversifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=273719
- “Coccoloba diversifolia.” Florida Native Plant Society. https://www.fnps.org/plants/plant/coccoloba-diversifolia
- “Coccoloba diversifolia.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp105
