Blue Wild Rye (Elymus glaucus)
Elymus glaucus, commonly known as Blue Wild Rye, is a cool-season, perennial bunchgrass native to North America, including parts of Illinois. It thrives in a variety of habitats, from woodlands to prairies, and is known for its adaptability to different soil conditions.
This grass features attractive, bluish-green foliage and upright seed heads that provide food and habitat for wildlife. It grows quickly and helps with erosion control, making it a valuable choice for restoration projects and native plant gardens. While not as dominant as other prairie grasses, it blends well with wildflowers and supports pollinators by offering shelter and nesting material.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Elymus glaucus is an excellent choice for creating resilient, wildlife-friendly landscapes.
Elymus glaucus, commonly known as Blue Wild Rye, is a cool-season, perennial bunchgrass native to North America, including parts of Illinois. It thrives in a variety of habitats, from woodlands to prairies, and is known for its adaptability to different soil conditions.
This grass features attractive, bluish-green foliage and upright seed heads that provide food and habitat for wildlife. It grows quickly and helps with erosion control, making it a valuable choice for restoration projects and native plant gardens. While not as dominant as other prairie grasses, it blends well with wildflowers and supports pollinators by offering shelter and nesting material.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Elymus glaucus is an excellent choice for creating resilient, wildlife-friendly landscapes.
Elymus glaucus, commonly known as Blue Wild Rye, is a cool-season, perennial bunchgrass native to North America, including parts of Illinois. It thrives in a variety of habitats, from woodlands to prairies, and is known for its adaptability to different soil conditions.
This grass features attractive, bluish-green foliage and upright seed heads that provide food and habitat for wildlife. It grows quickly and helps with erosion control, making it a valuable choice for restoration projects and native plant gardens. While not as dominant as other prairie grasses, it blends well with wildflowers and supports pollinators by offering shelter and nesting material.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Elymus glaucus is an excellent choice for creating resilient, wildlife-friendly landscapes.
Bloom: late spring to mid-summer
Habitats: drier hills; moist meadows; open woods
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to dry
Plant type (height): grass (up to 4 feet)
Requirements: partial sun
Soil: well-drained