How to Grow Pigeon Plum
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Pigeon Plum
Coccoloba diversifolia
treePigeon Plum is a tropical evergreen tree native to southern Florida and the Caribbean, known for its edible dark purple fruits that resemble plums. The tree grows to moderate heights with attractive broad leaves and produces clusters of small white flowers followed by prolific fruiting. It is highly valued for its ornamental qualities, wildlife appeal, and delicious fruit that attracts birds and humans alike.
When should you plant Pigeon Plum in your zone?
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Example Pigeon Plum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Pigeon Plum
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Pigeon Plum
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10b-11; marginally hardy in zone 10a with protection
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Get my Pigeon Plum timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
6-12 monthsYoung tree developing root system and establishing canopy structure
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist. Stake if necessary for wind protection. Apply 2-3 inches of mulch, keeping it away from trunk.
Vegetative Growth
1-2 yearsRapid foliage development with progressively larger canopy and stem thickening
Minimal pruning; remove only dead or crossing branches. Fertilize monthly during growing season with balanced or citrus fertilizer. Monitor for pests.
Pre-Flowering
1-2 yearsTree reaching maturity with fuller canopy, beginning to flower sporadically
Continue regular fertilization. Prune lightly to shape canopy if desired. Ensure consistent watering as flowering begins.
Flowering & Fruiting
3-4 months per season, may flower multiple times yearlyProduction of small white flower clusters followed by marble-sized green fruits that mature to dark purple
Maintain regular watering, especially during fruit development. Light pruning to improve air circulation. No thinning needed; tree naturally sets abundant fruit.
Harvest & Maturity
Ongoing; mature tree phaseFull-size productive tree producing abundant crops of ripe fruit
Harvest ripe fruit regularly. Provide consistent care with annual fertilization. Prune minimally to maintain shape and health. Tree remains productive for decades.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Harvest ripe fruit promptly; use netting if severe; maintain sanitation by removing fallen fruit
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Harvest fruit before full ripeness and store indoors; use fruit fly traps; remove infested fruit
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Spray with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; prune heavily infested branches
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Apply dormant oil spray in late winter; use horticultural oil during growing season
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators
Uses
Fresh eating and preserves
CulinaryPigeon plums are delicious eaten fresh with a sweet, mild flavor reminiscent of plums with subtle tropical notes. The fruit is commonly made into jams, jellies, juices, and wines throughout the Caribbean. [source]
Native bird and wildlife food source
WildlifeThe abundant fruit production makes pigeon plum an excellent choice for attracting native birds, particularly migratory species. In its native range, it is a key food source for wildlife throughout the year. [source]
Traditional tropical medicine
MedicinalVarious parts of the pigeon plum tree, including bark, leaves, and fruit, have been used in Caribbean and Central American traditional medicine for digestive complaints and other ailments. [source]
Landscape and shade tree
OrnamentalThe attractive evergreen foliage, white flowers, and colorful fruit make pigeon plum an excellent ornamental choice for tropical gardens. It provides dense shade and year-round visual interest. [source]
Living fence and privacy screen
HouseholdPigeon plum can be grown as a multi-stemmed shrub or pruned into hedges to create attractive natural screens and property boundaries while producing fruit. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Fruit ripens to dark purple-black color from green; pick when fully ripe (slightly soft to touch) or allow to drop naturally and collect from ground. Peak harvest is typically summer through fall. Eat fresh or use for juice, jam, and preserves. Fruit has a thin skin and one large central seed.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Pigeon plum gets its common name from the fruit's appeal to pigeons and doves, which feed voraciously on the abundant crop; historically, flocks of these birds would congregate in fruiting trees
- 🌱 The tree can produce fruit multiple times per year in ideal tropical conditions, providing nearly year-round harvests in regions like southern Florida and the Caribbean
- 🌱 Pigeon plum is one of the few native Florida fruit trees and is increasingly promoted for use in native plant landscapes and edible permaculture systems in South Florida
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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