Snowberry
Chiococca alba

Native from the Keys to Brevard County along the coast. Although this is a fast growing vining shrub, it can be trimmed and used as a groundcover or allowed to weave its way through tree branches where it then shoots out into the sunlight.

When in bloom, the creamy fragrant flowers attract unusual butterfies like the ruddy daggerwing shown here. The clean white quarter inch fruit hang in clusters and are very attractive to birds in late summer. They are not poisonous or tastey.

Moderate salt air, short periods of freezing temperatures, deep shade to full sun and a month or two of drought are all tolerated by this plant. It belongs to the coffee family and has shiny, dark green leaves.

Plant in rich, dry soil with organic matter. Let it climb up the boots of a sabal palm or other shrubs. When planting a mixed hedge, this can be planted in the front to add an attractive layer. Can be planted along the north side of the house as a ground cover.