Beach Plum grows naturally as a multi-stemmed shrub along the sandy coast, sometimes right in the dunes.  Like other cherries, Beach Plum features showy, white spring flowers before the leaves come out.
 
     The bluish fruits ripen in late summer and are loved by birds and small mammals.  The fruits are edible, tart off the vine but good in jams and pies and rich with antioxidants.  
 
     Beach Plum makes a beautiful focal point for a home garden.  It will grow best in full sun and in a dry-ish spot.  At least two are needed for fruit. 
 
     Beach Plum is a larval host to the Lo and several other moth species.   Native bees, beetles, wasps, butterflies pollinate the flowers.  
 
     Photos: Creative Commons.  2nd Photo: Plant Image Library