Distichlis spicata
Saltgrass
General
This salt-tolerant species is great for coastal restoration because it forms a thick root mat that controls coastal erosion and acts as a water filter between the ocean and the shore. It spreads vegetatively through these rhizomes to form large colonies of plants. This rhizomatous spread helps this species live in stressful environments by allowing transfer of resources and spread into more favorable areas. The colonies of this species provide nesting grounds for many species of birds, fish, and invertebrate larvae. The plant is also a good food source for birds, fish, clams, and crabs. This species is typically found in salt marshes in the Northeastern US. It is best planted in the upper areas of the marsh that are irregularly flooded, with water levels between 2” above the soil to 6” below the soil.
Plant Description
Saltgrass is a low-growing, perennial grass. It typically does not exceed 1 foot in height, and may be much shorter in high salinity areas. This species is dioecious, which means that the male and female flowers are on separate plants and only plants with female flowers will produce seed. This plant spreads well through its rhizomes and will form dense colonies in ideal environments.
Height (ft)
0.5-1'
Soil moisture
Dry to Wet
Soil types
Coarse to fine mineral soils
Wetland indicator
FACW
Shade tolerance
Intolerant, Full Sun
Bloom color
Yellow, inconspicuous
Bloom period
Mid-Summer
Drought tolerance
Medium
Salinity tolerance
High
Range
Most of the United States except Alaska, Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Puerto Rico, Tennessee, Vermont, and West Virginia.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]
Additional Information
According to the USDA Forest Service/Fire Effects Information System, this species has been used by the Chumash and Temalpakh people as salt for food as well as a cleaning brush material and utilized when removing thorns from cacti.