Fire Island has many micorclimates; think of them in strips. What grows near the beach is inappropriate for swales, and swale fare may not do well near the bay.

Outer dunes: American beachgrass (Ammophila breviligulata) -- but not European beach grass) is the thing to plant on dunes near the beach; it's ling rhyzomes do the most to  protect the dunes. Beach pea (Lathyrus japonica) can also be grown, and will add a dash of color (purple).

Immediately inland (the southern swales), more variety can be grown: bearberry (Arctostaphlos uva-ursi), beach heath (Hudsonia tomentosa). If you lean to suclunents, try a prickly pear (preferably Opuntia humifusa) and various kinds of sedum (which, however, would have to be protected from the deer). Another possibility is Seaside goldenrod (Solidago semperfirens), beloved by butterflies.

Farther inland one has more options, including larger plants: Northern bayberry, beach plum, black cherry (from which Cherry Grove probably derives its name), winged sumac and rugosa rose (well, the latter is almost native). for more on these larger plants, see our Shrub page.

Hydrangeas and day lillies don't mind the salt air (but alas, the deer don't mind them).

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Updated 2 Aug. 2003