Ammophila arenaria is a perennial, clump-forming grass with elongated rhizomes that spread to form large colonies. The culms are erect or ascending, 50 - 120cm long.The plant is an excellent sand binder, much planted along coasts to stabilize sand dunes. The plant also provides material for basket and broom making, thatching, fibres for paper etc.The plant is often planted to stabilize sand dunes, but should only be used within its native range since it spreads freely and can outcompete native plants on the dunes. Outside of its native range appropriate plants that are native to the specific area should be chosen.
