Bay Cedar Tree 65G+

Bay Cedar potted in Oolite, available in Jupiter, FL

The Bay Cedar (Suriana maritima) is a stunning and highly resilient coastal native tree that thrives effortlessly in South Florida landscapes. Offered in a large pot, this evergreen shrub or small tree showcases soft, gray-green foliage and peeling brown bark, delivering year-round beauty with minimal maintenance. Adapted to the challenging conditions of coastal living, Bay Cedar is salt-tolerant, drought-resistant, and wind-hardy, making it ideal for beachfront homes, sandy soils, and xeriscaped gardens.

Plant Class and Family:

• Scientific Name: Suriana maritima

• Plant Class: Magnoliopsida (Dicot)

• Family: Surianaceae

Plant Features:

• Mature Height: 6 to 20 feet

• Spread: 6 to 10 feet

• Growth Rate: Moderate

• Foliage: Soft, narrow gray-green leaves

• Flowers: Small yellow blooms appear year-round

• Fruit: Brown capsules attract birds and wildlife

Care Information for South Florida:

Sunlight Requirements:
Thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate light partial shade, but dense growth and flowering are optimized with full exposure.

Soil Requirements:
Bay Cedar prefers sandy, well-drained soils, replicating its natural coastal habitat. It can also tolerate rocky or nutrient-poor soils and does not do well in heavy clay or consistently wet locations.

Watering Needs:

• Establishment phase: Water regularly during the first 6–12 months to help roots develop.

• Mature plants: Once established, Bay Cedar is extremely drought-tolerant. Water occasionally during prolonged dry periods, but avoid overwatering.

Fertilization:
Requires little to no fertilization. If desired, a slow-release, balanced fertilizer can be applied in early spring to encourage new growth.

Maintenance:
Bay Cedar is naturally compact and requires minimal pruning. Prune lightly to maintain shape or to encourage denser foliage. It can be grown as a small tree or trimmed into a hedge.

Pest and Disease Resistance:
Generally pest-free and disease-resistant, making it a reliable choice for low-maintenance landscapes.

Landscape Uses:

• Ideal for coastal hedges, screens, or windbreaks

• Excellent in native gardens or butterfly habitats

• Beautiful as a specimen plant or container accent on patios or decks

• Complements xeriscapes and drought-tolerant designs

Why Choose Bay Cedar for South Florida:

• Highly adaptable to salt spray, wind, and drought

• Native to Florida, supporting local ecosystems

• Offers year-round foliage, flowers, and wildlife value

• Perfect for low-maintenance and sustainable landscaping

Jupiter Farms & Nursery