A tall, erect, stiff perennial grass arising from long subsurface rhizomes. A leaf cluster surrounds an elongated flowering spike, unlike other beach grasses.
American Beach Grass, the most common dune plant along much of the Atlantic Coast, is important as a dune stabilizer, for it can withstand burial within a shifting dune by sending up vertical rhizomes that produce new emerging stems. This plant’s rhizome mat is both horizontal and vertical, and its roots over 20’ deep beneath the sand, thus serving to knit a dune together. One of the first plants to appear where sand dunes are forming on a shoreline. As sand builds up around the new grass, the stems grow higher. Old stems become roots which can eventually extend 3-4 m below the top of a sand dune. Can be found on the Atlantic coast and the lower Great Lakes.
$14.99 – $149.99Price range: $14.99 through $149.99
Please note: Most pictures represent mature plants. Unless otherwise specified, all of our plants are sold in 4″ pots to make shipping possible and will mature in time.
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| Sunlight | |
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| Bloom Period | July to September |
| Size | 1 Gallon, 1 Quart, Full Flat (50) 2" Plugs |
Ammophila breviligulata, commonly known as American Beachgrass, is a hardy native ornamental grass valued for its ability to stabilize sandy soils, withstand coastal conditions, and thrive in challenging environments. Native to the Atlantic and Great Lakes coasts of North America, this vigorous perennial grass is an excellent choice for coastal landscapes, dune restoration, native plant gardens, erosion control, and naturalized areas.
During the growing season, Ammophila breviligulata forms dense clumps of narrow, blue-green foliage with upright flower stalks rising above the leaves in summer. Its strong, extensive rhizomatous root system allows American Beachgrass to spread through sandy soils and helps stabilize dunes and prevent erosion. The foliage also provides valuable cover and habitat for coastal wildlife.
American Beachgrass performs best in full sun and thrives in sandy, well-drained soils. It is highly tolerant of drought, salt spray, wind, and harsh coastal conditions, making it an excellent choice for seaside landscapes and exposed sites where many other plants may struggle. Once established, it requires minimal maintenance and can spread effectively to help stabilize shifting sand.
With its distinctive blue-green foliage, vigorous growth habit, exceptional coastal tolerance, and important role in dune stabilization, Ammophila breviligulata is an outstanding native grass for sustainable coastal landscapes, erosion control projects, and naturalized plantings.






