This Caribbean shrub or small tree is Torchwood, Jacquinia arborea.

It has dense, glossy foliage made up of thick, leathery leaves. Many of the leaf tips end in a short, sharp point, so the branches should be handled carefully.

The flowers are small, white, and fragrant. They usually appear in clusters near the ends of the branches and attract insects searching for nectar.

After flowering, the plant produces rounded fruits that ripen from green to yellow-orange or red. Each fruit contains several seeds surrounded by sticky pulp.

Torchwood is native to Florida, the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and northern South America. It is well adapted to dry forests, rocky ground, strong sunlight, wind, and salt spray.

The common name is believed to come from the resinous wood, which burns readily and was once used for torches.

Although it may not be as showy as some flowering trees, Torchwood is a tough and valuable native plant. Its dense branches provide shelter, while its flowers and fruits support insects, birds, and other wildlife.