The Red Tip Cocoplum (Chrysobalanus icaco ‘Red Tip’) is a Florida native evergreen shrub and one of the most popular hedges in South Florida, loved for its glossy round leaves, bright red new growth, and tough, low-care nature. It is the inland selection of cocoplum — dense, uniform, and quick to make a clean green wall.
Why Florida Customers Choose Us
| Size | Typical height | Spacing | Typical price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Gallon | 8–16" | 1.5 ft apart | $7.99 | Center-to-center |
| 7-Gallon | 24–36" | 2 ft apart | $29.99 | Center-to-center |
| 15-Gallon | 4–5ft | 3 ft apart | $59.99 | Center-to-center |
Red Tip Cocoplum Breakdown
Appearance:
Thick, rounded, leathery leaves in deep glossy green with new growth flushing a rich red at the tips.
Dense, upright branching from the ground up. Small white flowers are followed by round, plum-like fruit that is edible and loved by birds.
Growth Rate:
Moderate.
Fills in reliably with regular water during establishment.
Size:
Easily maintained as a 4–6 foot hedge; unpruned it grows 8–15 feet tall and wide.
Available in 3-gallon (8–16 inches), 7-gallon (24–36 inches), and 15-gallon (4–5 feet).
Sunlight Requirements:
Full sun to part shade.
Densest growth and reddest tips in full sun.
Water Needs:
Low once established.
Water regularly for the first few months, then only in extended dry spells.
Soil Preferences:
Adaptable to sandy, limestone, and most well-drained soils; tolerates occasional wet periods.
Maintenance:
Low.
Shear or hand-prune 2–3 times a year to keep a formal hedge; it responds well to trimming. Few pest problems.
Landscape Use:
Privacy hedges, property-line screens, foundation plantings, and native and wildlife landscapes.
Plant on 3-foot centers for a solid hedge. Note: 'Red Tip' is the inland form — it takes some salt but is not for direct oceanfront spray; use Sea Grape or Silver Buttonwood there.
Climate Tolerance:
USDA zones 10a–11.
Leaves are damaged below about 30°F; recovers quickly.
For a native hedge that looks neat year-round and asks for almost nothing, Red Tip Cocoplum is the South Florida standard for a reason.
Florida Delivery Available
We have in-stock Red Tip Cocoplum ready to ship throughout Florida. Multiple sizes available with professional installation options. Order online or text/call 561-898-2028 for expert advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Plant & Care for Red Tip Cocoplum in Florida
Layout Spacing
For 3 gal Red Tip Cocoplum, plant about 1.5 ft apart (center-to-center) for a full, dense hedge line.
Planting Hole + Drainage
Dig 2–3x wider than the root ball. If your area holds water, mound slightly so the root ball sits a bit high.
Plant + Settle In
Loosen circling roots, plant level to slightly above grade, and backfill with native soil. Water thoroughly to remove air pockets.
Watering (First Month)
Days 1–14: deep daily watering. Weeks 3–4: taper to ~3x/week depending on rain. Avoid letting the root ball dry out early.
Trim for Red Tips + Density
Light trims encourage fresh red growth. Regular shaping keeps it thick and privacy-friendly.
Professional Installation Available: Not comfortable planting yourself? We offer expert installation services throughout Florida. Our team has 15+ years of experience ensuring your plants thrive. Call 561-898-2028 to add installation to your order.
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