Red-tipped Cocoplum (Chrysobalanus icaco)
Regular price $89.95The Red-tipped Cocoplum (Chrysobalanus icaco), also known as Icaco or Paradise Plum, is a versatile and attractive evergreen shrub native to the coastal regions of the Caribbean, Central and South America, and southeastern United States. This resilient plant is well-suited for coastal landscapes, thriving in sandy soils and tolerating salty air and occasional flooding. It typically grows to a height of 3-10 feet, forming dense, spreading thickets that provide excellent ground cover and erosion control.
Traditionally, the fruits have been harvested for their nutritional value and used in various culinary applications. They have a unique and mildly sweet flavor that can be quite enjoyable. The taste is often described as subtly sweet and somewhat bland, with a slight hint of tartness. The texture of the fruit is soft and somewhat mealy, similar to that of a plum or a pear, but with a less intense flavor profile. The flesh of the Cocoplum surrounds a large pit, and while the fruit is not as juicy as other tropical fruits, it has a pleasant, delicate sweetness that makes it suitable for fresh eating. When fully ripe, the fruit can be eaten straight off the plant, providing a mild and refreshing snack, or used in making jellies, jams, and desserts.
In addition to its unique edible fruits, the plant's dense growth habit makes it an ideal choice for hedges, windbreaks, and ornamental landscaping. Its ability to thrive in challenging coastal environments also makes it a popular choice for stabilizing sand dunes and preventing soil erosion.
Our Red-tipped Cocoplum fruit trees are shipped in our X-Large (3 gallon) recyclable nursery pots or plantable burlap pots when possible. Plantable pots can be planted directly in the soil, promoting strong root growth and ensuring an eco-friendly start.
How to Grow Red Coco Plum Plants
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Red Coco Plum thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. It is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11, tolerating temperatures as low as 25°F.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining sandy or loamy soil but can adapt to various soil types. It is highly tolerant of salty and alkaline soils.
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny to partially shaded location. Red Coco Plum performs best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-draining. Amend heavy clay soils with sand or organic matter to improve drainage.
- Planting Time: Plant young shrubs in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
- Spacing: Space plants 3-5 feet apart for hedges and up to 10 feet apart for individual specimens to allow adequate room for growth.
Watering
- Establishment Phase: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist during the first year. Consistent moisture is crucial for young plants.
- Mature Plants: Once established, Red Coco Plum is drought-tolerant. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Sunlight
- Full Sun to Partial Shade: Ensure the plants receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
Fertilizing
- Growing Season: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth. Supplement with organic matter or compost.
- Frequency: Fertilize annually or as needed based on soil fertility.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Routine Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or diseased branches. Light pruning encourages bushy growth.
- Maintenance: Red Coco Plum requires minimal maintenance once established. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: Monitor for pests such as aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
- Diseases: Watch for signs of fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. Ensure proper spacing and good air circulation to reduce disease risk.
Harvesting Fruit
- When to Harvest: Fruits are ready to harvest when they turn deep red or purple and are slightly soft to the touch. They should easily detach from the plant.
- How to Harvest: Gently pick the fruits by hand to avoid damaging the plant.
👉 Checkout the Full Guide Here
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Important Shipping Information:
Sow Exotic ships nationwide year-round to the United States. We use plant-based, plastic-free, reusable, recyclable, biodegradable, AND compostable packaging materials. All of our plants ship ready-to-grow in plantable pots (with the exception of citrus) and range in size. See the size guide on each plant page to learn more about what to expect upon arrival.
Shipping & Handing Cost
Shipping cost is calculated at checkout based on your order weight and your distance from the nursery. Shipping is combined for multiple orders with plants, so the more you grow, the more you save!
Order Processing & Shipping Schedule
Live plant orders are processed at the beginning of each week and ship on Monday-Thursday via 1-3 Day USPS Priority Mail. Order processing time before shipment changes seasonally and averages from same day shipping to up to 14 days depending on season. (Spring is busiest!). Expected delivery date and lead time is shown at checkout.
Tracking Your Order
As soon as you place your order, you will receive order confirmation and a link to your Order Status Page. You can view and track your orders progress online any time via your Order Status Page!
When your order ships, we'll send you a shipping confirmation and tracking info to let you know it's on it's way! We'll also send you delivery confirmation as soon as your order has been dropped off!
You can sign up for additional order status/tracking alerts on your Order Status Page.
Heat Packs & Weather Holds:
Heat Packs
Shipping tropical plants to a cold climate in the middle of winter? We sell Heat Packs! If it's under 32 degrees in your area, we definitely recommend ordering a Heat Pack! Visit our Heat Packs page to learn more and purchase your heat pack.
Weather Holds
Waiting for the perfect time to plant? You can order now and request a custom weather hold until your preferred arrival date. Please email care@sowexotic.com to request a custom hold.
Local Pickup at the Nursery:
Available for all plants!
Shipping to Hawaii & Puerto Rico & Minor Outlying Islands:
We ship to Puerto Rico! Due to USDA restrictions, here's the list of a plants that we don't ship.
Plants that DO NOT ship to Puerto Rico: Coffee, Palm, Banana
Plants that DO NOT ship to Hawaii: Pineapple, Palm, Papaya, Coffee, Banana, Passion Fruit
