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locustberry
Scientific Name: Byrsonima coccolobifolia
Family: Malpighiaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Locustberry (Byrsonima lucida)
The Locustberry, scientifically known as Byrsonima lucida, is a versatile tropical plant found in several southern regions. It's known by the common name Locustberry, which can sometimes refer to related species.
Considerations for Pets
- This shrub is often a host to epiphytes.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Byrsonima lucida (Mill.) DC.
- Common Names: Locustberry, Long Key locustberry
- Family: Malpighiaceae
Distribution and Habitat
- Originally found in open pinelands and coastal hammocks in extreme southern Florida and the West Indies.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Irregular branching habit.
- Can grow as a shrub or a tree, with coastal varieties reaching 20 feet or more.
- Displays red flowers in the spring, followed by light brown fruit.
- Evergreen shrub.
- Medium growth rate.
- Prefers full sun to very light shade.
- Excellent drought tolerance, prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Ecological Role
- Can be used sparingly as an understory shrub in ecological restoration projects.
General Uses
- Accent flowering shrub.
- Useful in buffer plantings.
Quirky Facts
- The fruit, described as an acid drupe, has been used as food.