Canada Wild Rye

(Elymus canadensis)

Canada Wild Rye (Elymus canadensis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Elymus canadensis, commonly known as Canada Wild Rye, is a perennial bunchgrass native to a variety of habitats including prairies, open woodlands, and forest margins across the North American Continental Region. It typically reaches heights of 1 to 1.5 meters (3 ft 3 in to 4 ft 11 in) and grows from a small rhizome. The plant forms a shallow, fine root network and is a facultative mycotroph, which means it can obtain approximately 25% of its nutrients from a symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi. The stems of Canada Wild Rye are hollow and tough at maturity, bearing rough, flat leaves that contribute to its distinctive appearance.

Canada Wild Rye is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and is often used in erosion control projects. It is also employed in the revegetation of metal-rich soils in reclaimed mines due to its tolerance of such conditions. In gardens, it is appreciated for its ornamental seed heads and adaptability to a range of soil types. This grass is best grown in full sun but can tolerate part shade. It is adaptable to various soil moisture levels, from dry to medium wet, and can handle a range of drainage conditions. While it is not known for having serious disease or pest issues, it can become invasive outside its native range, so caution is advised when planting it in non-native areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 2-4 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to prairies, open woodlands, and forest margins

Other Names

Common Names: Canadian Wildrye, Great Plains Wildrye, Nodding Wildrye, Élyme Du Canada, Borstelm, Kanadaelm

Scientific Names: , Elymus canadensis, Elymus wiegandii, Elymus canadensis f. canadensis, Elymus canadensis var. brachystachys, Elymus canadensis var. robustus, Elymus canadensis subsp. canadensis, Hordeum patulum, Elymus brachystachys, Elymus glaucifolius

GBIF Accepted Name: Elymus canadensis L.