How to Grow Lyme grass
iNaturalist
Lyme grass
Leymus secalinus
grassLyme grass is a perennial cool-season grass native to coastal dunes and sandy areas of North America. It features blue-green foliage and distinctive spike-like flower heads, growing 2-4 feet tall. This hardy grass is valued for erosion control, landscaping, and wildlife habitat restoration.
When should you plant Lyme grass in your zone?
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Example Lyme grass timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Lyme grass
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Lyme grass
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Lyme grass dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8, with best performance in cool to temperate regions
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Get my Lyme grass timeline →Growth Stages
Germination
10-14 daysSeeds begin sprouting and develop first true leaves
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged; ensure adequate light exposure; germination takes 10-14 days
Seedling/Establishment
4-6 weeksYoung plants develop multiple shoots and begin forming shallow root systems
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist; protect from competition; thin if overcrowded
Vegetative Growth
8-12 weeksPlant develops dense clumps of blue-green foliage; rhizomes expand underground
Reduce watering frequency as plant becomes established; allow soil to dry between waterings; minimal fertilization needed
Flowering
4-8 weeksDistinctive spiky flower heads emerge, typically pale yellow to tan in color
Maintain dry conditions; avoid fertilizing; allow flowers to mature naturally; dead-heading is optional
Maturity/Dormancy
4-6 monthsFoliage takes on golden or bronze tones; plant enters dormancy in winter
Reduce watering significantly; no fertilization needed; can cut back dead foliage in late winter or early spring
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove affected foliage; use neem oil spray if severe; encourage natural predators
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Spray with horticultural oil; prune affected stems; improve plant vigor through proper watering
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; remove heavily infected foliage
Uses
Erosion Control & Dune Stabilization
HouseholdLyme grass is extensively used to stabilize sand dunes and prevent coastal erosion due to its strong rhizomatous root system. Its ability to trap sand and build dunes makes it invaluable for beach restoration projects. [source]
Wildlife Habitat
WildlifeThe plant provides shelter, nesting material, and food sources for various coastal bird species and insects. Its dense growth creates microclimates beneficial for small mammals and insects. [source]
Ornamental Landscaping
CraftPrized in native plant gardens and xeriscaping for its attractive blue-green foliage and architectural flower heads. Works well in drought-tolerant landscape designs and coastal gardens. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalSome coastal indigenous cultures traditionally used related Leymus species for medicinal purposes, though modern research is limited. Historical uses included treating respiratory and digestive ailments. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Lyme grass is not harvested for consumption. For erosion control or transplanting, divisions can be taken in spring or fall. For seed collection, allow flower heads to mature and dry completely, then harvest seeds in late summer or early fall.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Lyme grass is sometimes called 'lime grass' due to a historical naming confusion, though it has no connection to the citrus fruit or the chemical compound lime.
- 🌱 The plant's rhizomes can extend several feet horizontally underground, making it extremely effective at trapping sand and preventing erosion in coastal environments.
- 🌱 Lyme grass was historically used in coastal management programs along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of North America, and many beach restoration projects still rely on this species today.
Gardening Terms
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