Pigeon Plum
Scientific name: Coccoloba diversifolia
Overview
Pigeon Plum (Coccoloba diversifolia) is a coastal Caribbean hardwood commonly found in sandy soils and near shorelines. While not a major commercial species, it is valued locally for its durability and adaptability to harsh environments. The wood is moderately dense and suitable for a range of small to medium applications, particularly where locally sourced materials are preferred.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Pigeon Plum
- Scientific Name: Coccoloba diversifolia
- Region: Caribbean & West Indies Hardwoods
- Tree Size: 20–50 ft tall, typically under 1–2 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: ~45–55 lbs/ft³ (estimated)
- Janka Hardness: Not officially rated (moderately hard)
- Color: Light to medium brown, sometimes with olive tones
- Grain: Straight to slightly irregular
- Texture: Medium to fine
Identification Characteristics
Pigeon Plum wood typically has a subtle, natural appearance with light to medium brown coloration and a relatively even texture.
Key identification traits include:
- Light to medium brown coloration, sometimes with olive hues
- Moderate density with a solid feel
- Straight to slightly irregular grain
- Typically available in smaller dimensions
Working Properties
Pigeon Plum is moderately easy to work and performs similarly to other mid-density tropical hardwoods.
- Machines reasonably well
- Accepts finishes evenly
- Moderate durability
- Can show minor grain irregularities when cut
Safety Note
No widely reported toxicity, though standard precautions such as dust protection are recommended when working with any hardwood.
Common Uses
Pigeon Plum is primarily used in local and small-scale applications.
- Small furniture pieces
- Utility lumber
- Carving and craft work
- Tool handles
- General woodworking
Sustainability & Notes
Pigeon Plum is commonly found in coastal ecosystems and is not heavily exploited commercially. Its use is generally localized, and it plays an important ecological role in stabilizing coastal environments.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Sea Grape – Another coastal Caribbean species in the same genus, often with more pronounced grain and larger growth form.
Spanish Elm – Similar regional hardwood with comparable workability but typically used in slightly larger applications.
Breadfruit – Comparable in general use, though lighter in weight and easier to work.
Related Guides
How to Identify Exotic Hardwood by Grain Pattern – Helps distinguish subtle grain structures found in woods like Pigeon Plum.
Drying & Acclimating Exotic Woods – Important for stabilizing mid-density woods used in furniture and craft work.
Plantation vs. Wild-Harvested Hardwood – Provides insight into how locally sourced woods like Pigeon Plum are typically obtained.
Compare Wood Properties
See how this species ranks in density and hardness using our Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart. You can also explore Hardest Woods, Softest Woods, and Most Dense Woods for quick comparisons.
Collector Notes
Pigeon Plum is not a high-profile collector species, but it adds value to a collection focused on Caribbean and coastal hardwoods. Its subtle coloration and regional significance make it a good supporting species within a broader collection.
Video Overview
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Wood Sample Collection
This species is part of an ongoing effort to document and preserve wood samples from around the world.
Learn more about contributing to the collection:
Resources
Authoritative botanical and forestry references used in compiling information about this species include:
• USDA Forest Service – Wood Handbook: Wood as an Engineering Material
https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/products/publications/
• The Wood Database – Global reference for wood identification, physical properties, and woodworking characteristics
https://www.wood-database.com/
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online – Botanical taxonomy and species distribution database
https://powo.science.kew.org/
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Red List) – Global conservation status assessments
https://www.iucnredlist.org/
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) – International trade regulations for protected plant species
https://cites.org/
Additional forestry publications, academic research papers, and regional timber studies may also be referenced where available.
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Availability & Where to Buy
Exotic hardwood availability can vary significantly depending on region, sustainability regulations, and supplier inventory.
As this archive grows, recommended suppliers and specialty wood retailers will be listed here to help woodworkers locate responsibly sourced material.
Lumber Suppliers:
Availability varies — see the Where to Buy Exotic Woods page for current sources.
Related Tools & Products:
Availability varies — see the Where to Buy Exotic Woods page for current sources.
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