Contents
Description
Ammophila Breviligulata, commonly known as American beachgrass, is a tall perennial grass native to the eastern coast of North America. It is a popular plant for coastal dune stabilization, as its deep roots help to stabilize sand and prevent erosion. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and forms dense clumps with long, narrow leaves that are blue-green in color. It produces large, feathery flower spikes in the summer that can grow up to 2 feet tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Ammophila |
Appearance
American beachgrass is a tall, clumping grass that grows up to 3 feet tall. Its leaves are long and narrow, with a blue-green color. The plant produces large, feathery flower spikes in the summer that can grow up to 2 feet tall. Its deep roots help to stabilize sand and prevent erosion.
Care Guide
American beachgrass is a hardy plant that requires little maintenance. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade. Watering is only necessary during periods of drought, and fertilization is not necessary. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
American beachgrass is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-drained.
Habitat
American beachgrass is native to the eastern coast of North America, and is commonly found on sand dunes and beaches. It is a popular plant for coastal dune stabilization, as its deep roots help to stabilize sand and prevent erosion.
Question and Answer
Q: Can American beachgrass be grown in containers?
A: Yes, American beachgrass can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s deep roots.
Q: Can American beachgrass be planted in the fall?
A: Yes, American beachgrass can be planted in the fall. However, it is best to plant in the spring or early summer to allow the plant to establish before winter.
Q: How often should American beachgrass be watered?
A: American beachgrass only needs to be watered during periods of drought. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate dry conditions.
Q: Does American beachgrass attract wildlife?
A: American beachgrass can attract a variety of wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
Related Plants
- Ammophila Arenaria
- Ammophila Champlainensis
- Ammophila Macrocarpa
- Ammophila Breviligulata
References
- “Ammophila Breviligulata.” United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=AMBR3
- “American Beachgrass.” University of Florida, IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/EP/EP14700.pdf
- “Ammophila Breviligulata.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=AMBR3
