Swartz’s Pigeonplum

Scientific name: Coccoloba swartzii

GPS Location: 17° 42′ 58.76 N, 64° 49′ 46.39 W

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Observations:

Phenological Markers – Schwartz’s Pigeonplum (Coccoloba swartzii)

1. Leaf Behavior
Coccoloba swartzii is a semi-evergreen to evergreen tree, with broad, leathery leaves that may vary slightly in shape but are typically oval to round, with a smooth edge and prominent veins.

  • It retains most of its foliage year-round in moist conditions, but may shed some leaves during dry months.
  • New leaves emerge in flushes, often reddish to bronze before maturing to green.

Observation Tips:

  • Watch for subtle leaf flushing, especially March–May or after rainfall.
  • Note any seasonal thinning during extended dry periods (e.g., February–April).

2. Flowering
Flowers are tiny, white-green, and borne in elongated spikes (up to 4 inches long) that emerge at the tips of branches or in leaf axils.

  • Blooming typically occurs in spring to early summer, especially April–June.
  • The flowers are fragrant and attract bees and other small insects.

Observation Tips:

  • Monitor branch tips and leaf axils for developing flower spikes.
  • Document pollinator activity, especially on warm mornings.

3. Fruiting
The fruit is a small, round drupe, initially green, turning red to dark purple when ripe.

  • Fruits are edible and mildly sweet, though not widely cultivated.
  • Fruiting follows flowering, with mature fruit typically present July–September.
  • The fruit is important to birds and small mammals for foraging.

Observation Tips:

  • Track color progression of fruit clusters.
  • Record fruit drop, wildlife feeding, and natural seed dispersal patterns.

4. Growth Habit
A small to medium-sized tree, usually 20–35 feet tall, with a rounded crown and light gray bark.

  • Found in dry forests, coastal thickets, and limestone soils.
  • Highly tolerant of salt, wind, and poor soil, making it a valuable coastal stabilizer and native landscaping choice.

5. Seasonal Pattern (St. Croix)

  • Feb–Apr: Light leaf thinning; early flower spikes may form
  • Apr–Jun: Peak flowering and new leaf flush
  • Jul–Sep: Fruiting; canopy stability
  • Oct–Jan: Gradual return to full leaf cover if previously thinned
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