Seacoast Marsh Elder
Iva imbricata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–60" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, FL, GA, LA and 5 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, wasps
Seacoast marsh elder is a medium-sized native shrub that thrives in coastal conditions and sandy soils. It produces small greenish flowers from summer into fall and tolerates salt spray and drought well. This deciduous shrub has a somewhat informal branching habit and can spread to form colonies over time.
In an HOA neighborhood
Seacoast Marsh Elder takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Informal growth habit may appear unkempt
- Can spread aggressively and form colonies
- Deciduous nature leaves bare stems in winter
Wildlife value
The long blooming period provides nectar for various pollinators including native bees, beetles, and wasps. Seeds support songbirds and the shrub provides nesting habitat for small birds.
Common questions
- How much sun does Seacoast Marsh Elder need?
- Seacoast Marsh Elder grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Seacoast Marsh Elder bloom?
- Seacoast Marsh Elder blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Seacoast Marsh Elder native?
- Seacoast Marsh Elder (Iva imbricata) is native to AL, FL, GA, LA and 5 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Seacoast Marsh Elder attract?
- Seacoast Marsh Elder draws bees, beetles, and wasps.
- Is Seacoast Marsh Elder HOA-friendly?
- Seacoast Marsh Elder takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Seacoast Marsh Elder? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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