All flowers
Geiger Tree Wikimedia Commons
Boraginaceae

Geiger Tree

Cordia sebestena

Tropical warmth.

Family
Boraginaceae
Genus
Cordia
Native to
Caribbean, Central America, Northern South America
Bloom season
Year-Round In Tropics
Type
Evergreen tree
Height
500-800 cm
Sunlight
Full sun
Soil
Well-drained, sandy, alkaline
Water
Low to moderate
Hardiness
10-12
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • The Geiger tree is named after John Geiger, a 19th-century Key West shipwreck salvager who grew one in his yard.
  • It produces clusters of crinkled, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom almost continuously in warm climates.
  • The tree is highly salt-tolerant, making it ideal for coastal landscapes.
  • Its rough, sandpaper-like leaves were historically used to polish wood and clean dishes.
  • The white, edible fruit is sticky and was used as glue by indigenous Caribbean peoples.

Color meanings

0

Hospitality

1

Cheerfulness

2

Resilience

Uses

  • Coastal landscaping
  • Street tree
  • Ornamental
  • Traditional crafts