Suriana maritima aka Bay Cedar

Suriana maritima, or bay cedar, is an evergreen coastal shrub. It belongs to the Surianaceae family. Its native range spans tropical shores from southeastern Kenya to Mozambique and the Pacific. It also includes Florida, southern Mexico, and tropical America. It grows on sand dunes, rocky shores, and coral sites. Plants live above the high-tide line, sometimes behind mangroves.

Bay cedar forms a dense, rounded shrub with many branches. UF/IFAS gives a garden height of 5–20 feet [1.5–6.1 metres]. Its spread reaches 5–8 feet [1.5–2.44 metres]. Useful Tropical Plants gives a usual height near 10 feet [3 metres]. It records rare plants reaching 23 feet [7 metres]. Growth proceeds at a moderate pace. Several stems may rise from the base. Dark brown bark flakes from the stout trunk. Arching branches carry short twigs that turn upward.

The small, fleshy leaves give the plant a fine texture. They are gray-green, simple, and arranged alternately along the stems. Each leaf has a spoon-like shape and a smooth edge. Fine hairs cover the leaves, with more on fresh growth. Leaf veins are hard to see. The foliage stays green without a fall color change. Small yellow flowers form cups among the leaves. They appear alone or in groups at intervals throughout the year. The brown, rounded fruits are dry and attract birds. A small, five-pointed calyx holds the seeds. Seawater carries the seeds, which can float for months.

Grow bay cedar in full sun and well-drained soil. It accepts sand or loam, and acidic or alkaline conditions. Established plants can grow without added water in suitable sandy sites. They withstand drought, salt spray, strong winds, and hot beach conditions. UF/IFAS lists USDA hardiness zones 10b–11. Clipping suits this shrub, making hedges and screens practical uses. Gardeners can also train it as a small tree. It serves as a specimen, border plant, or container plant. Coastal plantings help hold beach and dune sand in place. Flowers attract butterflies. Growers raise new plants from seed.

UF/IFAS reports no major pest or disease concerns. Roots seldom cause trouble. The hard, heavy wood serves for small crafted objects. Useful Tropical Plants records traditional medicinal uses for leaves, branches, and flowers. These include wound care and treatments for bowel complaints. Such records do not establish safe or effective treatment. The same source lists no known food uses or hazards. That does not confirm safety for people or pets.