Elymus canadensis

Share on

Common Name: Canada Wild Rye, Prairie Wild Rye, Nodding Wild Rye

Full to part sun, moderately wet to dry moisture level, tolerates a wide range of soils including clay, strongly acid to slightly alkaline pH.  3-5 feet height, blooms spring into early summer, green flowers, self-seeds in optimum conditions and rapid spread can be a problem.

Germination Code:  A 

Native Region:  Occurs in 4 counties – Davidson, Rutherford, Bledsoe, and Knox

Cool season.  Low-maintenance and easy to grow.  Establishes easily and provides quick initial cover.  Good groundcover for dry, sunny slopes.  Foliage and seed spikes turn tan in fall and provide visual interest through the winter.  Attracts butterflies and birds.

Canada Wild Rye, Prairie Wild Rye, Nodding Wild Rye - Elymus canadensis
Photo courtesy of John Hilty http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/