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. It is native to Europe.
About
A hardy native grass commonly found along coastal areas, Ammophila arenaria proliferates through resilient rhizomes, forming dense clusters of narrow, greyish-green leaves that remain throughout the year. Its leafy stems can reach heights of 1.2 meters and bear compact beige flowerheads during the summer months. This species is frequently used for stabilizing shifting sand dunes and serves as a food source for various moth caterpillars.
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
- Native to
- Europe
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Ammophila arenaria
- Cultivation
- Grows mainly on sand dunes, where it can be the dominant plant. Copes with moving sand and salt wind, and thrives in well-drained soil in an open, sunny position
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or by division of rhizomes
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Ammophila arenaria?
Grows mainly on sand dunes, where it can be the dominant plant. Copes with moving sand and salt wind, and thrives in well-drained soil in an open, sunny position.
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 do I prune Ammophila arenaria?
No pruning required.
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 a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Ammophila arenaria?
Propagate by seed or by division of rhizomes.