Elymus canadensis (Canada Wild Rye)

A distinctive ornamental grass, Elymus canadensis (Canada Wild Rye) is a cool season perennial grass forming a large clump of flat, pointed, bluish-green leaves, which clasp the stems at the bases. Elegant, arching flowering stems rise well above the foliage in mid to late summer. Resembling wheat or rye spikes, they bear heavy, greenish flowers in bristly spikes, 6 in. long (15 cm), which nod gently and gracefully sway in the breeze. Both foliage and spikes turn blond or sandy tan in fall, and continue to provide visual interest throughout the winter. Canada Wild Rye is a good bunchgrass for sunny natural landscape or partly shady prairie plantings. It self-sows readily, which is desirable in meadows or prairie restorations, but may be a nuisance in small gardens. Fast-growing, but somewhat short-lived, this prairie grass is drought tolerant, requires little to no maintenance, is virtually disease and pest free and provides months of interest. Cut seed stalks look lovely in dried arrangements.

• Grows up to 2-5 ft. tall (60-150 cm) and 2-3 ft. across (60-90 cm).
• Performs best in full sun in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. This plant is not fussy about soils and tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, including dry soils.
• Excellent choice for prairies and meadows or banks and slopes for erosion control.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Deer resistant.
• Propagate by seed, root division. Plant or divide in autumn. Sow seed on top of soil as seed needs light to germinate.
• Native to much of North America.