photo of Ammophila breviligulata

Ammophila breviligulata

American Beachgrass

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American Beachgrass is an evergreen grass, ubiquitous to the northeastern seaside landscape. Yellow, inconspicuous flowers bloom on spikes,...

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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