Protecting & Restoring Long Island's Peconic Bays

Plant Details

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 York Native: Yes

Deer Resistance: Some

Attracts Pollinators and Wildlife: Birds

Salt Tolerance: High

Hardiness Zone 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b

Soil Characteristics

Soil Type: Loam, Sandy

Soil Moisture: Medium-drained, Well-drained

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: Medium-drained, Well-drained

Drought Tolerance Medium

Size and Growth Rate

Height: 1 - 3 ft

Spread: 0.50 - 1 ft

Growth Rate: Fast

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