Sandy beaches represent a harsh habitat that is inhabited by plants equipped with adaptation to such habitat. So even though Hong Kong does not have any deserts, sandy beaches is a good example to illustrate the adaptation to xerophytic environments.

Environmental pressure on plants:

a) unstable substratum

b) pruning effects of wind

c) salt spray by wind

d) poor water supply, rain water not well retained, sea water of little value

e) high salt content of water

f) tidal changes

g) high irradiation, little shading, refraction by sand

h) wide range of temperature fluctuation at ground level, high around noon time and possibly some 20°C lower at night

i) low nutrient supply

j) exposure to herbivores