Leymus arenarius 'Blue Dune'	Blue lyme grass

Scientific name: Leymus arenarius 'Blue Dune' Common name: Blue-downy lyme grass, Blue lyme grass, Marram sea grass, Narrow bent, Rancheria grass, Sea lyme grass Region of origin: Europe, Asia NOTE: This species can become invasive.	Photo by CCE staff   Click on image for other views	Highlights: Weed Suppressive Rating: Good - Excellent Hardiness: Zones 3-9 Height x Spread: 2 to 4 ft. x indefinite Season of bloom: Summer Flower color: Blue-gray Exposure: Full sun Soil requirements: Well-drained soil Moisture requirements: Very drought tolerant
Physical description: This plant is an ornamental grass that spreads by underground stems (rhizomes). The growth habit is compact, even if it arches over when the stems become too long. It reaches 2 to 4 feet tall and spreads indefinitely. The evergreen leaves are 12 in. long and ½ in. wide, rough, and colored a deep bluish green. Flowering occurs in summer, and flowers are borne in dense spikes, which reach 5 to 7 in. long. Although the foliage is very attractive, the same cannot be said for the flowers. The fruit is non-ornamental, too. Optimal growing conditions: Blue lyme grass is soil-tolerant, but performs best in well-drained soil under full sun. It can develop in extremes of heat and cold, and is very drought resistant. The growth is fast, but it may become slow during hot summers. Winter hardiness: Zones 3 to 9. Susceptibility to pests and diseases: No serious pest or disease problems have been reported for this species Use: Because of its attractive evergreen foliage, Blue lyme grass may be used in many places, as a general cover or to control erosion on dune landscapes.

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