Beachgoers, you might have noticed an attractive, vining plant growing along the coastal dunes. Beach vitex (Vitex rotundifolia) has been seen in St. Johns and Nassau counties, which is a problem because it is an invasive weed that causes harm to dunes and sea turtles.
Good cause gone wrong
Originally brought in from Asia and Oceania in the 1980s, beach vitex was intended to help stabilize dunes after Hurricane Hugo in the Carolinas. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a poor choice. Not only does it not effectively stabilize dunes, but it also outcompetes native plants like sea oats, which are crucial for maintaining healthy dune ecosystems.
Beach vitex also poses a threat to wildlife. The dense mats formed by the vines can entangle sea turtles, hatchlings and birds nesting in the dunes.
Stay vigilant folks, beach vitex is on the prowl!
— US Fish and Wildlife (@USFWSSoutheast) March 2, 2024
This #invasive coastal plant poses a threat to wildlife, especially sea turtles, by making dunes completely unnavigable for them.
Think you have beach vitex on a beach near you? Let us know!#NISAW
📸USFWS pic.twitter.com/sDQ1LxStNS
Identifying beach vitex
This low-growing, woody shrub has sprawling branches and can reach up to 3 feet tall. Its salt- and drought-tolerant nature allows it to thrive in sandy dunes.
The rounded, opposite leaves have a white underside and a slightly spicy scent when crushed. Unlike other vitex species in Florida, beach vitex can be distinguished by this unique leaf characteristic.
Rapid spreader, ecological threat
Beach vitex reproduces quickly -- both through seeds and underground structures.
Its rapid growth creates dense mats, harming native plants in several ways.
Its non-fibrous root system doesn’t hold the sand together like native plants, and it releases chemicals that repel water, hindering seed germination and the growth of other species. These harmful chemicals can persist in the sand for years.
Requires professional removal
Due to its harmful effects, beach vitex is classified as a Category I invasive by the Florida Exotic Plant Pest Council (FLEPPC) and a state noxious weed.
It is illegal to buy or transport this plant within Florida without proper permits.
Additionally, federal authorities can take action to contain and control its spread.
What you can do
If you suspect you’ve encountered beach vitex, do not attempt to remove it yourself.
Instead, contact your local county Extension Office for proper removal guidance.
By working together, we can help protect Florida’s delicate coastal ecosystems from the harmful effects of beach vitex.