This Caribbean tree is Swartz’s Pigeonplum, Coccoloba swartzii.

It belongs to the same genus as Sea Grape, but its leaves are much smaller and more elongated. The foliage is glossy green, and the tree usually develops a dense, rounded crown.

Its flowers are tiny and pale, arranged along slender spikes. After pollination, they develop into small rounded fruits that ripen from green to reddish-purple or dark purple.

Birds are attracted to the fruits, which explains the name “Pigeonplum.” By eating them, birds help carry the seeds into nearby woodland.

Swartz’s Pigeonplum is native to the Caribbean and is well adapted to dry tropical conditions, rocky soils, strong sunlight, and seasonal drought.

The tree is named for the Swedish botanist Olof Swartz, whose work helped document many Caribbean plant species.

It may not produce a dramatic floral display, but its dense foliage and wildlife-friendly fruit make it an important part of the native Caribbean landscape.