Overview
Ammophila arenaria is a matforming, tufted grass like in the genus Ammophila, part of the Poaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 1.5-2.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Ammophila arenaria grows best in full sun, and tolerates sand soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is drought resistant and low maintenance. Suggested uses include coastal, low maintenance and banks and slopes.
About
Ammophila arenaria, commonly known as marram grass, is a matforming and tufted grass-like plant from the Poaceae family. It is an evergreen species that typically grows to a height of 0.5 to 1 metre with a spread of 1.5 to 2.5 metres, reaching full height within 2 to 5 years. This drought-resistant plant thrives in full sun and well-drained sandy soils with neutral to alkaline pH, making it suitable for exposed east, south, or west-facing aspects. It is low maintenance and provides year-round interest through all seasons.
About the genus
Ammophila is a genus of flowering plants consisting of two or three very similar species of grasses. The genus name Ammophila originates from the Greek words ἄμμος (ámmos), meaning "sand", and φίλος (philos), meaning "friend". The common names for the grasses include marram grass, bent grass, and beachgrass.
Wikipedia contributors, "Ammophila (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Ammophila (plant)
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Ammophila
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Ammophila arenaria size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Matforming, Tufted
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Low Maintenance, Banks and slopes
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Ammophila arenaria
- Propagation
- Seed, Division of rhizomes
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Ammophila arenaria?
Ammophila arenaria prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.
What soil does Ammophila arenaria need?
Ammophila arenaria grows best in sand soil. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How big does Ammophila arenaria grow?
Ammophila arenaria reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 1.5-2.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Ammophila arenaria hardy in the UK?
Ammophila arenaria has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Ammophila arenaria?
Seed, Division of rhizomes.
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