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Physical description: American beachgrass is a perennial that grows
to 3 feet. This is leafy, spreading grass with leaves that are
long and narrow. In hot weather, the leaves curl inward to minimize
the exposure to the sun and conserve moisture. The flowers of
this plant are hermaphrodite. American beachgrass grows naturally
on the dunes at beach borders, and is able to stabilize the primary
dunes by spreading its strong rhizomes beneath the sand, creating
an intertwined network, which anchors the sand.
Optimal growing conditions: American beachgrass prefers sandy or loamy, well-drained
soil in full sun. This plant tolerates drought and summer heat,
continuous salt spray, nutritionally poor soil, severe maritime
exposure, and unreliable water supply. However, it cannot grow
in the shade, and can be easily damaged by foot traffic.
Susceptibility to pests and diseases:
This plant is not very susceptible
to pests and diseases.
Use: American
beachgrass is one of the most important dune plants; the extensive
root system of this plant makes it an excellent plant for soil
stabilization. Also, the roots of this plant are edible, and
have been used as an emergency food source.
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