Leymus arenarius aka European Dune Grass

Taxonomy

Genus Leymus Family Poaceae Order Poales Class Liliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Leymus arenarius, also known as sand ryegrass, sea lyme grass, or lyme grass, is a psammophilic species of grass in the Poaceae family. Native to the coasts of Atlantic and Northern Europe, this densely tufted, semi-evergreen to evergreen grass can reach a height of about 1.5m. It forms loose, spreading clumps of arching, pale, steel-blue leaves that are approximately 60cm long. Leymus arenarius produces stiff, upright stems that bear spike-like racemes measuring 35cm in length. These racemes consist of blue-grey then buff spikelets and appear throughout the summer. While Sand Ryegrass is primarily found in its natural habitat, it can also be grown as a rare houseplant. When cultivated indoors, it requires regular watering to thrive. It thrives best when exposed to long-lasting, direct light and should be positioned less than 1 foot away from a window. Repotting the plant each time it doubles in size eliminates the need for additional fertilizers. Sand Ryegrass belongs to the Leymus genus and is native to Northern and Western Europe.

Common names

European Dune Grass, Lyme Grass, Rancheria Grass

How to care for European Dune Grass

Water

European Dune Grass should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

European Dune Grass requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your European Dune Grass will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The European Dune Grass should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Region of origin

European Dune Grass’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to Spain and Siberia. N. America.

More info:
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More Species in Leymus Genus

Leymus arenarius European Dune Grass

Leymus cinereus Basin Wild Rye

Leymus triticoides Beardless Wild Rye

Leymus racemosus Mammoth Wild Rye

Leymus mollis American Dune Grass