Beach Plum (Prunus maritima)

Family: Rosaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Prunus maritima is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet, the fruit can be eaten out of hand, used in pies, preserves etc or be dried for later use. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Very variable in quality, the best forms are sub-acid to sweet, the fruit can be eaten out of hand, used in pies, preserves etc or be dried for later use.; The fruit is about 15mm in diameter and contains one large seed.; Seed - raw or cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

Light gravelly or sandy soils near the coast. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)