I think I found the perfect fine for coastal erosion! It's been used for erosion control by the Dutch for years. It's salt tolerant, so it's goof for coastal areas that get salt spray, or for growing next to highways in Northern areas where they use a lot of salt tolerant. It's also extremely cold tolerant (it grows in Northern Canada) and somewhat shade tolerant. It tolerates sandy soils and rich loans with equal ease. It's non-toxic for most pets. Less prone to damaging trees or walls then ivy. It's a North American native with substantial wildlife value. It has great Fall color...this is really the time of year it looks most attractive.

I've been having trouble finding it at nurseries, but I understand someone has bred a variegated cultivar. (If anyone can find me a source, I'd be interested)

I think it's related to the cashew.

Here's a picture...OK, the flowers and fruit aren't much to look at, but the yellows and reds you get in the Fall are the most attractive feature.