Beach plum, Shore plum, Sand plum
Prunus maritima

Family: Rosaceae

What it is like

A shrub. It has a low growth habit. It grows 1.8 m high and spreads 2 m wide. The bark is dark. It loses its leaves during the year. The leaves are glossy. They are dark green but paler underneath. The flowers form a showy display. They are white and in pairs or small clusters. The fruit are 1.5 cm across. They are purple, red or yellow. They are plum-like and edible. Some kinds are very sour.

There are about 200 Prunus species.

Where it is found

It occurs naturally on the sand dunes of the Atlantic Coast of USA. It occurs naturally in soils with low nutrients and low water holding capacity. They are subject to drought, high winds and salt content. Temperate. It suits hardiness zones 3-9.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Canada, North America, USA

How it is used for food

The fruit are eaten raw. They are used for jelly, jams, pies, sauces, soups, cakes, and puddings. They are also dried.

Fruit are sold in markets.

Edible parts

Fruit, seeds

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Prunus acuminata Hook.f.; Prunus acuminata Michx.; Prunus maritima var. maritima;