Beach Plum
Prunus maritima
Last reviewed: July 2026
Beach Plum is a native shrub found along the Atlantic coast from Maine to Virginia, producing white flowers in May and June. This hardy plant thrives in sandy coastal conditions and provides important habitat for native pollinators.
Beach Plum is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Beach Plum as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
36"–96" H × 36"–96" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CT, DE, MA, MD and 7 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Beach plum is a native shrub that produces fragrant white flowers in late spring followed by edible purple plums in summer. This hardy plant tolerates poor soils and drought conditions once established, making it excellent for low-maintenance landscapes.
Growing Beach Plum
Grow Beach Plum in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 36 to 96 inches tall and spread 36 to 96 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Beach Plum is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, foundation.
- Can appear somewhat wild and irregular in form
- May sucker and spread if not maintained
Wildlife value
The spring blooms attract native bees and beetles for pollination. The fruits provide food for birds and small mammals in late summer.
Common questions
- Where does Beach Plum naturally grow?
- Beach Plum is native to the Atlantic coastal states from Maine south to Virginia, including Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island.
- When does Beach Plum bloom?
- Beach Plum typically blooms in May and June, producing clusters of small white flowers before the leaves fully emerge.
- What pollinators visit Beach Plum?
- Beach Plum flowers attract various native bees and beetles, making it valuable for supporting coastal pollinator populations.
- What growing conditions does Beach Plum prefer?
- Beach Plum thrives in full sun and well-drained, sandy soils. It is extremely tolerant of salt spray and coastal conditions, requiring minimal watering once established.
- Is Beach Plum toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Beach Plum is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Beach Plum toxic to cats?
- Yes. Beach Plum is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Beach Plum toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Beach Plum as toxic to livestock.
- Is Beach Plum HOA-friendly?
- Beach Plum is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Beach Plum and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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