Prunus maritima aka Beach Plum

Prunus maritima, or beach plum, is a deciduous shrub. It belongs to the rose family, Rosaceae. Its native range follows the northeastern United States south to Virginia. UConn also records it as native to New Brunswick. It forms a rounded crown with many close branches. Garden plants reach about 6–8 feet [1.8–2.5 metres] tall. Virginia Tech reports cultivated plants reaching 10 feet [3 metres]. Their spread can match their height. Wild plants may stand just 4 feet [1.2 metres] tall. Shoots from the roots help the shrub spread.

Young bark is smooth and reddish brown, with horizontal lenticels. Older bark becomes dark and rough. The slender twigs are also reddish brown. Fine hairs cover new growth, and the buds have sharp tips. Leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. Each leaf is simple, with a finely toothed edge. Leaves range from egg-shaped to oval, with dull green tops. Their undersides are paler and bear fine hairs. Small glands sit near the base of each leaf. Fall foliage can add some color to the garden.

White flowers appear in spring, often during May. Chicago Botanic Garden gives a wider season of March through June. Each flower has five petals and yellow anthers. Flowers grow alone or in small groups. Insects pollinate them, and the species is not self-fertile. The fleshy fruit holds one large seed. Fruits range from red to purple or nearly black. Some have a pale coating on the skin. They ripen in late summer, with UConn naming August. Fruit size ranges from about half an inch to one inch.

Grow beach plum in full sun and soil that drains well. It accepts sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It also grows across mildly acid to mildly alkaline conditions. Sources describe dry to moist soil and moderate watering. The shrub tolerates salt and exposure near the sea. Chicago Botanic Garden lists USDA zones 3–6. UConn recommends pruning after the spring flowers fade. Plants can be raised from softwood cuttings and transplant well.

Beach plum suits small groups, foundation beds, and specimen planting. Its roots help hold coastal sand, and it attracts birds. The fruit can be eaten fresh or cooked. Flavor varies from tart to sweet. Cooks use it in pies and preserves, or dry it. PFAF also lists seeds as edible but warns against bitter ones. Leaves and fruit can supply dyes. UConn notes a short lifespan and many insect and disease problems.