Quick answer: Beach plum (Prunus maritima) is native to 8 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Unknown photographer, Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium water, Dry-Moist |
| Soil | Sandy or gravelly soils, salt-tolerant |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-Jun |
| Height | Up to 8 ft, occasionally 12 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Birds and wildlife eat fruit, attracts pollinators, special value to native bees |
Partially wilted foliage contains hydrocyanic acid, known to kill livestock that browsed on it. Seeds of all Prunus species contain poisonous substances, should never be eaten; toxicity varies by age/weight/condition, children most vulnerable
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Beach plum
Where is Beach plum native?
Beach plum (Prunus maritima) is native to Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Virginia. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Beach plum bloom?
Beach plum blooms Apr-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Beach plum need?
Light: Sun. Water: Medium water, Dry-Moist. Soil: Sandy or gravelly soils, salt-tolerant. Mature height: Up to 8 ft, occasionally 12 ft tall.
Is Beach plum good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Birds and wildlife eat fruit, attracts pollinators, special value to native bees.
Is Beach plum deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Beach plum is drought-tolerant.
Is Beach plum toxic?
Partially wilted foliage contains hydrocyanic acid, known to kill livestock that browsed on it. Seeds of all Prunus species contain poisonous substances, should never be eaten; toxicity varies by age/weight/condition, children most vulnerable.
Where can I buy real Beach plum seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Prunus maritima on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Beach plum.
- Seaside goldenrod Solidago sempervirens
- Northern blue flag Iris versicolor
- Sheep laurel Kalmia angustifolia
- Hairy beardtongue Penstemon hirsutus
- Lowbush blueberry Vaccinium angustifolium
- Steeplebush Spiraea tomentosa
Also listed under
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