Skip to main content

We can all play a role in protecting Florida's natural resources.

Take the FFL Pledge!

Eugenia rhombea Red Stopper, Spiceberry

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen


Release Date: 10/17/2023

Reviewed At: 10/3/2023

DOI: 10.32473/edis-fp201-1999

Agriculture

Abstract

This document provides an overview of the Eugenia rhombea, commonly known as red stopper or spiceberry. It details the tree’s characteristics, including its moderate growth rate, evergreen leaves, and year-round white flowers. The red stopper is native to Florida and thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10B through 11. It is well-suited for various landscaping uses, such as hedges, parking lot islands, and street plantings, due to its adaptability to different soil types and high drought tolerance. The tree typically grows to a height of 15 to 20 feet and has a spread of 10 to 15 feet. It is noted for its ornamental features, pest resistance, and suitability for both shaded and sunny locations.

About this Publication

This document is FPS-201, one of a series of the Department of Environmental Horticulture, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date October 1999. Revised October 2023. Visit the EDIS website at https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu for the currently supported version of this publication.

About the Authors

Edward F. Gilman, professor emeritus; Ryan W. Klein, assistant professor, arboriculture; and Gail Hansen, professor, sustainable landscape design; Department of Environmental Horticulture, UF/IFAS Extension, Gainesville, FL 32611.

How to Cite

Gilman, E. (2007). Eugenia rhombea Red Stopper, Spiceberry. EDIS, 2007(16). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-fp201-1999

Authors

Edward F. Gilman
Edward F. Gilman

professor emeritus, Department of Environmental Horticulture

Ryan Klein
Ryan Klein
Specialist
University of Florida

assistant professor, arboriculture, UF/IFAS School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences

Gail Hansen
Gail Hansen
Specialist
University of Florida

professor, sustainable landscape design, UF/IFAS Department of Horticultural Sciences

Contacts

Keighly Graves
Keighly Graves
staff
University of Florida

horticultural science specialist, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program

Claire Lewis
Claire Lewis
Specialist
University of Florida

state specialized agent II and director Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program, UF/IFAS Center for Land Use Efficiency

Wendy Wilber
Wendy Wilber
Specialist
University of Florida

state program coordinator and Extension agent IV, UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program

Publication #FPS-201