Carried by 14 nurseries
View Availability at NurseryData provided by the participants of the Consortium of California Herbaria
View additional distribution information on the Jepson eflora
Saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) is a hardy, creeping perennial grass in the Poaceae family, found throughout California’s coastal salt marshes, alkali sinks, and other saline environments. It’s known for its ability to thrive in salty, alkaline soils by excreting excess salt through its leaves. The narrow, stiff green leaves may appear crusted with salt, adding to its distinctive look.
While not commonly used in residential gardens, saltgrass is an excellent choice for restoration projects along coastlines, rivers, and wetlands. It spreads through rhizomes, forming dense mats that can handle heavy foot traffic. Planting is best done in late spring using plugs or rhizomes spaced one foot apart.
Saltgrass also supports native wildlife, providing food for waterfowl and occasional grazing for livestock. Its adaptability and resilience make it a valuable plant for ecological restoration in challenging environments.
Grass
1 - 2 ft Tall
Upright
Moderate, Slow
Yellow
Summer
Groundcover
Full Sun
Very Low, Low
Keep moist
Moderate
Tolerates cold to 0° F
Fast, Medium, Slow, Standing
Adaptable. Grows well in both coastal sand and heavy alkali clay.
Tolerates saline soil.,Tolerates sodic soil..
Soil PH: 5.0 - 8.5
3, 4*, 5*, 6*, 7*, 8*, 9*, 10, 11, 12*, 13*, 14*, 15*, 16*, 17*, 18*, 19*, 20*, 21*, 22*, 23*, 24*
Salt marshes, moist, alkaline places
Alkali Sink, Coastal Salt Marsh, Creosote Bush Scrub, Valley Grassland, Wetland-Riparian
Use with other wetland and/or salt tolerant species such as Seaheath (Frankenia salina), Goldenbush (Isocoma menziesii), Bog Rush (Juncus effusus), Sealavender (Limonium californicum), Marsh Fleabane (Pluchea odorata), Pickleweed (Salicornia spp.), and Cordgrass (Spartina foliosa)
Butterflies and moths supported
6 confirmed and 1 likely
Sachem
Atalopedes campestris
Orange Skipperling
Copaeodes aurantiaca
Wandering Skipper
Panoquina errans
Sandhill Skipper
Polites sabuleti