Ammophila breviligulata
American Beachgrass
American Beachgrass is an evergreen grass, ubiquitous to the northeastern seaside landscape. Yellow, inconspicuous flowers bloom on spikes,...
Description:
American Beachgrass is an evergreen grass, ubiquitous to the northeastern seaside landscape. Yellow, inconspicuous flowers bloom on spikes, May-September. It is commonly used as a dune stabilizer along the east coast. Rhizomes (underground stems) travel vertically and horizontally for up to 20 feet, creating a “net,” which holds the sand in place. As sand builds up around the plant, the vertical stems grow higher; this continuous process builds the dune. American Beachgrass is best planted during its dormancy period, October-March.
Plant Details:
Other Common Names: Beach Grass
Plant Type: Grass
New Jersey Native: Yes
Bloom Times: Late Spring to Early Summer, Summer, Late Summer to Fall
Bloom Colors: Yellow
Deer Resistance: Some
Attracts Pollinators and Wildlife: Birds
Salt Tolerance: High
Hardiness Zone: 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b
Physiographic Region: Piedmont - P, Coastal Plain - CP
Grows in Special Ecoregions: Barrier Island/Coastal
Soil Characteristics
Soil Type: Loam, Sandy
Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist
Soil pH: Acidic, Slightly Acidic, Neutral, Slightly Alkaline
Light Needs of Plant
Optimal Light: Full Sun
Light Range: Full Sun
Water Needs of Plant
Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist
Drought Tolerance: Medium
Size and Growth Rate
Height: 1 - 3 ft
Spread: 0.50 - 1 ft
Growth Rate: Fast