Blue Wildrye

(Leymus secalinus)

Blue Wildrye (Leymus secalinus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Leymus secalinus, commonly known as Blue Wildrye, is a semi-deciduous perennial grass native to temperate grasslands, open woodlands, and scrublands of Central Asia and East Asia. It typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). Blue Wildrye is characterized by its blue-green foliage and upright form, which adds a unique texture to garden landscapes. It produces inflorescences that are less showy than its foliage, with flowers appearing in the summer months.

Blue Wildrye is valued for its adaptability to various soil types, its ability to thrive with minimal water once established, and its contribution to erosion control. It is often used in naturalized plantings, as a ground cover in open spaces, and for habitat restoration projects. This grass prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade and is generally low-maintenance, requiring only occasional watering once established. While it is not typically prone to serious diseases or pests, rust can occasionally be a problem. Blue Wildrye is not known for aggressive roots or invasiveness, making it a safe choice for gardeners looking to add a naturalistic element to their landscapes.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1.5-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Temperate grasslands, open woodlands, and scrublands of Central Asia and East Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Wildrye, Lai Cao

Scientific Names: , Leymus secalinus, Elymus dasystachys, Leymus dasystachys, Leymus littoralis, Aneurolepidium dasystachys, Leymus ovatus, Leymus chakassicus, Leymus qinghaicus, Leymus secalinus subsp. secalinus

GBIF Accepted Name: Leymus secalinus (Georgi) Tzvelev