Prunus maritima (Beach Plum) is a hardy native shrub known for its fragrant white spring flowers and edible purple to blue plums that follow in late summer. Naturally adapted to sandy coastal conditions, it provides excellent habitat value while offering seasonal beauty and fruit for wildlife and human use. Height & Spread: 4 - 6 ft x 4 - 6 ft Bloom Time: Early to mid spring Light Requirements: Full sun Soil Preference: Sandy, well drained soils; tolerant of poor soils Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established Deer Resistance: Low deer resistance Native Status Prunus maritima is native to the eastern coastal regions of North America and is commonly found in dunes, sandy fields, and coastal habitats. WILDLIFE & INSECTS Birds Fruits are eaten by birds such as American Robins, Northern Mockingbirds, and Eastern Bluebirds. Bees Early spring flowers attract native bees and other pollinators. Butterflies Supports butterflies and beneficial insects seeking nectar in spring. Spacing & Landscape Use Spacing Recommendations Space 4 - 6 ft apart to allow for natural spreading and colony formation. Landscape Placement Ideal for coastal plantings, naturalized areas, and edible landscapes where sandy soils and full sun are present. Companion Plants Amorpha fruticosa (False Indigo Bush) - Adds nitrogen fixing benefits and thrives in sandy poor soils. Solidago sempervirens (Seaside Goldenrod) - Provides late season color and supports pollinators in coastal settings. Panicum virgatum (Switchgrass) - Offers structure and erosion control in sandy soils. Hudsonia tomentosa (Beach Heather) - Low growing groundcover suited to dry sandy conditions.
