Eugenia axillaris, commonly known as White Stopper, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to coastal hammocks, maritime forests, and sandy areas in central and southern Florida, the Caribbean, Bermuda, eastern Mexico, and Central America. It typically reaches 20 to 30 feet in height but is often found shorter in the wild. White Stopper has a dense, multi-stemmed form with smooth, pale gray bark. Its leaves are aromatic when crushed, and it produces small, inconspicuous white flowers followed by purple to black berries that are attractive to birds.

White Stopper is valued for its ability to thrive in coastal conditions, including tolerance to salt spray and sandy soils, making it suitable for seaside plantings. Its dense growth habit and evergreen foliage make it an excellent choice for privacy screening or as a background plant in mixed borders. In cultivation, it prefers part shade but can adapt to full sun, requiring moderate water and well-drained soils. It is relatively low-maintenance and can be pruned to maintain a desired shape or size. While not commonly afflicted by serious diseases or pests, it can occasionally suffer from root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0