Beach Dropseed
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(Sporobolus virginicus)
Beach Dropseed (Sporobolus virginicus)
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Nina Kerr
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Nina Kerr
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Nina Kerr | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Nina Kerr | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2021-04-04T11:06:50-07:00 |
Summary
Sporobolus virginicus, commonly known as beach dropseed or seashore dropseed, is a perennial tussock grass that is naturally found in coastal sand dunes, salt marsh edges, and other saline environments. Its native distribution is extensive, encompassing coastal regions of much of the world. This grass typically grows to a height of 4 to 20 inches and produces inflorescences that are green or purple, with a flowering season that extends through the warmer months. The flowers are not particularly showy but are adapted to the challenging conditions of their native habitats.
Beach dropseed is valued for its ability to stabilize sandy soils with its deep root system, making it an excellent choice for erosion control in coastal areas. It is also used in xeriscaping due to its tolerance of drought and saline conditions. In cultivation, beach dropseed requires well-drained soils and full sun exposure. It is relatively low maintenance. Gardeners should check local regulations before planting in non-native regions, as it may spread beyond intended areas.CC BY-SA 4.0
Beach dropseed is valued for its ability to stabilize sandy soils with its deep root system, making it an excellent choice for erosion control in coastal areas. It is also used in xeriscaping due to its tolerance of drought and saline conditions. In cultivation, beach dropseed requires well-drained soils and full sun exposure. It is relatively low maintenance. Gardeners should check local regulations before planting in non-native regions, as it may spread beyond intended areas.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Grass
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 2-9.75 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow
Common Uses
Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting, Water Garden
Natural Habitat
Coastal sand dunes and salt marsh edges
Other Names
Common Names: Marine Couch Grass, Seashore Dropseed, Jatopa, Marine Couch, Sand Couch, Water Couch, Saltwater Couch, Brakuha
Scientific Names: Sporobolus virginicus, Agrostis affinis, Agrostis barbata, Agrostis congener, Agrostis distichophylla, Agrostis dura, Agrostis dura, Agrostis juncea, Agrostis littoralis, Agrostis littoralis
GBIF Accepted Name: Sporobolus virginicus