Thinopyrum junceum aka Russian Wheatgrass

Thinopyrum junceum, known as sand couch, is a perennial grass. It belongs to the grass family, Poaceae. Sources also list it under the name Elytrigia juncea. Kew places its native range in Macaronesia and the Mediterranean region, reaching the Caucasus. It grows in temperate climates and occurs on dry, sandy ground. The supplied sources differ on its wider range. Plants For A Future lists records across Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa.

Sand couch reaches about 2 feet [0.6 metres] in height. Its roots spread widely through the soil. This root system gives it a role in holding sand in place. The evidence gives no mature width for a garden plant. Flowers appear from July to September. Each flower has both male and female organs. Wind carries the pollen between flowers. Seeds ripen from September to October, after the flowering season. The supplied species account gives no leaf or flower colour.

Choose an open site with full sun for this grass. It does not grow in shade. Sandy soil suits it best, though it also grows in loam and clay. Good drainage matters more than rich soil. It can grow where soil nutrients are low. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline ground. Salty soil and exposure to sea winds are also within its tolerances. Plants For A Future lists USDA hardiness zones 4–8.

Dry or moist soil can support growth. Once established, plants can withstand drought. Its main recorded use is to bind inland sand dunes. Its spreading roots help keep loose sand from shifting. Salt tolerance adds to its value in exposed sites. The source also lists it for cultivated beds. It reports no weed potential, despite the broad root system. No species-specific pest or disease problems appear in the supplied evidence.

Sow seeds in mid-spring, covering them with a thin soil layer. The source gives a germination time of about two weeks. Divide plants in spring or summer. Large divisions can go straight into their final site. Grow small divisions in pots until they root well. Plants For A Future records no known food or medicinal uses. It also lists no known hazards. That statement does not establish safety for people or pets.