Iva frutescens is a hardy, deciduous native shrub valued for its exceptional tolerance of coastal conditions and challenging soils. Naturally found in salt marshes and along shorelines, this adaptable plant features slender gray-green leaves and an open, upright habit that brings a soft, natural texture to the landscape.
In late summer, inconspicuous greenish flowers appear, followed by small seed heads that provide food for birds and wildlife. Marsh elder thrives in wet soils and is highly tolerant of salt spray, flooding, and poor drainage, making it an ideal choice for coastal landscapes, rain gardens, shoreline stabilization, and naturalized plantings. Once established, it is also drought tolerant and requires minimal maintenance.