Sea Grapes are Delicious!
August 11, 2012 8 Comments
Sea Grape Tree
Great Egret on Sea Grapes
Close-up of Back Lit Sea Grape Leaf
Sea Grape Jelly
Sea Grape Leaf Turtle
Sea grapes are growing quickly now in Florida. In late summer and early Fall the fruit ripens and turns purple. Grapes can then be eaten raw, or used to make jelly or wine. A recipe for sea grape jelly is at: http://www.authenticflorida.com/authentic-living/cuisine/how-to-make-sea-grape-jelly/
Tourists in the 1930s used the sea grape’s thick leathery leaves to write postcards. Today people use the fallen leaves for art, plates, wreaths, or even to make dresses for a fashion show! This native plant is so important for beach stabilization and wildlife that it is protected by law.
About Pam
YAY! Love our sea grapes… Such a vital part of our ecosystem; glad they’re now protected.
Would love to try some jelly – hear it’s great!
Ditto…. We’re always looking for ripe sea grapes, but of course leave them for the wildlife. I’d LOVE to try it though!!
I fell in love with sea grapes trees/bushes in Jamaica. I was so disappointed that I could not bring a plant or seeds home with me because of custom regulations. I love the thick lime green of the leaves with the vivid red vein. I was happy recently to find a source for a few seeds here in the US. I received them, but they look pretty dried out to me. I am hoping putting them in a soil in a hot humid container will do the trick and they will sprout for me. Loved seeing a post about them.
I love sea grapes too! The leaves are incredibly beautiful. If you want a reliable place to buy seeds or a plant from, I’ve had success with toptropicals.com (search coccoloba)
Thank you Pam. I bought mine from a person selling through Amazon.com. I will try the site you mentioned also. Kathy
Where? Can u buy sea grape jelly?!
I’ve bought it on Sanibel/Captiva Island in the stores. In Fall you can sometimes get it at roadside stands.