Ornatec InternationalSpecies reference sheet ยท ornatecinternational.com
Leymus arenarius
Blue Lyme Grass
Leymus arenarius, the Blue Lyme Grass, is a rhizomatous dune grass of the northern European coasts, grown ornamentally for the intense steel-blue of its broad strap leaves. Clumps run to 0.6 or 1.2 metres and spread steadily by underground runners.
It is a sand-binder first and an ornamental second, and it is at its most useful stabilising dunes, coastal embankments and exposed sandy batters.
Specifications
- Height0.6 to 1.2 metres
- Width0.6 to 1 metre per clump, spreading steadily by rhizome
- Native toCoastal northern and western Europe
- FoliageBroad steel-blue strap leaves; semi-evergreen, dying back in hard winters
- Growth rateFast
Conditions
- SoilPrefers sandy, sharply drained soils and thrives in pure dune sand
- LightFull sun
- WaterLow; drought-tolerant once established
- ClimateThrives in cool temperate and coastal regions; dislikes hot humid summers
Additional Features
- FlowersWheat-like blue-green flower spikes through summer
- UsesIdeal for dune stabilisation, coastal embankments and blue foliage accent planting
- SpacingPlant 0.5 to 0.8 metres apart, allowing for rhizomatous spread
- Low MaintenanceCut back in late winter and contain the rhizomes with an edge or barrier
- Pest ResistanceGenerally pest-free and resilient
- Salt ToleranceThrives in salt-laden coastal wind and blown sand
- Erosion ControlDeep rhizomes bind shifting sand; it is a primary dune species
- Drought ToleranceHolds condition on pure sand with no supplementary water
Blue Lyme Grass is the specialist sand-binder among ornamental grasses, delivering colour on ground where little else will hold.
Availability by project review. Sizes, quantities, origin and export readiness are confirmed after your plant schedule is reviewed against destination, timing and quarantine requirements. MEWA certified for supply into Saudi Arabia; Australian Export Registered Establishment.
Enquiries: sales@ornatecinternational.com
310 Donkin Rd, Utchee Creek QLD 4871, Australia
Prepared 09 September 2026