Chrysobalanus icaco

Coco plum (Chrysobalanus icaco)
Scientific name	Chrysobalanus icaco[1]
Common names	Coco plum[2]
Genus	Chrysobalanus
Family	Chrysobalanaceae[1]
Order	Malpighiales[1]
Native range	Tropical coastal regions of the Americas and west tropical Africa[2]
Growth form	Slow-growing small evergreen tree, sometimes prostrate[2]
Climate and site	Humid lowland tropics; shoreline forest and sandy thickets; full sun or light shade[2]
Mature height	About 4–6 m[2]
Propagation	Fresh seed in partial shade; soft nodal cuttings and layering are also documented[2]
Fruit and uses	Ovoid fruit about 2–5 cm long, eaten raw or cooked[2]

Chrysobalanus icaco is the coco plum, a slow-growing evergreen fruit tree of tropical coastal habitats. It is cultivated and gathered for its edible fruit, and its tolerance of salt-laden winds makes it useful in some coastal plantings.^[1][2]

Description

The plant is a small evergreen tree with a twisted bole; some individuals grow prostrate along the ground. It reaches about 4–6 m and grows slowly.^[2]

Distribution and habitat

Chrysobalanus icaco occurs from Brazil north through the Caribbean, Mexico, and southern Florida, and along coastal areas of west tropical Africa from Senegal to Angola. It is associated with forests near shorelines, coastal sandy thickets, and sites where the soil may be moist or flooded.^[2]

Cultivation

Soil and water

The natural habitat includes shoreline forest and sandy thickets, with plants often found where soil is moist or flooded. In cultivation, it succeeds in ordinary garden soil, including poor or fertile soils, provided the soil is well drained. Established plants are very drought tolerant.^[2]

Sun and humidity

Grow coco plum in a humid lowland tropical setting in full sun or light shade. It tolerates salt-laden winds, so coastal exposure is compatible with the species when the root zone remains suitable for cultivation.^[2]

Seasonal changes

Flowering may occur in two or more flushes per year or intermittently throughout the year. The evergreen habit and drought tolerance suit seasonal variation.^[2]

Propagation

Sow fresh seed as soon as it is ripe in a partially shaded nursery bed. Moderate germination occurs within about 20–25 days. When seedlings reach 4–5 cm, pot them into individual containers and plant them out about 6–7 months later. Soft nodal cuttings and layering are also listed as propagation methods.^[2]

Flowering, fruiting, and harvest

The species may flower in repeated flushes or intermittently through the year. Its ovoid fruit is about 2–5 cm long. The fruit is gathered from wild plants and is also produced by cultivated trees in tropical regions.^[2]

Fruit and uses

The fruit has a fairly sweet, white, spongy flesh and is eaten raw or cooked. It is also stewed with sugar, dried, or made into jams and jellies.^[2]

References

• ↑ [1] GBIF species match: Chrysobalanus icaco.

• ↑ [2] Useful Tropical Plants: Chrysobalanus icaco.

Image credits

• Summary image: Chrysobalanus icaco (Chrysobalanaceae) 01.jpg — fruits and leaves, photograph by Filo gèn', CC BY-SA 4.0.