Sand Ryegrass

(Leymus arenarius)

Sand Ryegrass (Leymus arenarius)

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Leymus arenarius Native Range
Native Range
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Climate Requirements

• Precipitation 21" - 47"
• High Temp. 62°F - 70°F
• Low Temp. 18°F - 33°F

Summary

Leymus arenarius, commonly known as Sand Ryegrass, Sea Lyme Grass, or simply Lyme Grass, is a perennial grass native to coastal sand dunes and beach areas in Atlantic and Northern and Central Europe. This species is well-adapted to its psammophilic (sand-loving) environment, thriving in highly saline conditions and stabilizing sand with its extensive root system. Leymus arenarius typically forms robust clumps of blue-green foliage and produces tall, spiky inflorescences that may be less noticeable compared to its foliage. It can reach heights of up to 4 feet (1.2 meters).

Sand Ryegrass is valued for its ability to prevent soil erosion on sandy soils and is often used in coastal restoration projects and dune stabilization. Its high immunity to pathogens and adaptability to salinized areas make it a low-maintenance choice for challenging sites. In gardens, it can serve as an ornamental grass or a natural barrier. While it prefers full sun or part shade, Leymus arenarius can tolerate a range of soil drainage conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 3-4 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Coastal sand dunes and beach areas

Other Names

Common Names: Lyme-Grass, European Dune Grass, Lyme Grass, Rancheria Grass, Sea Lyme Grass, Beach Wild Rye, Clymwellt, Marehalm, Gemeiner Strandroggen, Sandhafer

Scientific Names: Leymus arenarius, Elymus arenarius, Hordeum arenarium, Elymus geniculatus, Elymus arenarius var. geniculatus, Elymus arenarius var. leopolensis, Elymus arenarius var. macrostachyus, Elymus arenarius var. megastachys, Elymus arenarius var. minor

GBIF Accepted Name: Leymus arenarius (L.) Hochst.