Bushes That Thrive on Salt Water

Rugosa Rose

• Rugosa rose (Rosa rugosa), native to China, Korea and Japan, features branches that grow upright and may grow up to six feet tall. This bush blooms all summer from June through August. The pink or white flowers may bloom in clusters or as single blossoms on each branch. The highly fragrant flower might grow up to 3-1/2 inches across.

Elderberry

• Elderberry (Sambucus Canadensis), popular for use in jams, pies and jelly, makes an attractive, easy to grow plant which will grow in nearly any moist, well-drained soil. The elderberry will tolerate many different soil textures, acidities and fertilizer. Its vitamin C-rich fruit will typically be harvested during the fall, beginning in August.

Scotch Rose

• The scotch rose (Rosa spinosissima) blooms its beautiful, fragrance free, light pink flowers during the spring months only. This plant makes an ideal ground cover that easily grows up to four feet tall. It remains tolerant of both salt and drought, producing a spreading mound.

Lilac

• The common lilac (Syringa vulgaris) features fragrant, showy flowers that may range in color from white to purple or pink. This bush tolerates areas of drought and easily adapts to a large assortment of soils, although it thrives in full sunshine. Lilacs make ideal border plants as well as an excellent choice for use to break the wind or provide privacy once the bush fully matures and becomes full. Other than as used for nesting, the lilac provides little use to most wildlife.