Bottlebrush Grass (Elymus hystrix)
Elymus hystrix, commonly known as Bottlebrush Grass, is a native perennial grass found in woodlands, prairies, and moist, shady areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, moist soils and prefers partial to full shade, though it can tolerate some sun.
This grass features arching, narrow, dark green leaves and produces loose, elongated flower spikes in late spring to early summer. The flower spikes, which are often tinged with purple, gradually mature into seed heads that provide food for birds and other wildlife. Elymus hystrix typically grows to a height of 2 to 4 feet, with a graceful, clump-forming habit.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Elymus hystrix is an excellent choice for shaded gardens, woodland restoration, or naturalized landscapes, particularly in areas with moist soils. It is a low-maintenance, hardy grass that provides ecological benefits by supporting pollinators and offering food for wildlife. Its deep fibrous roots also make it an effective plant for erosion control in shady, moist areas. Additionally, it adds texture and movement to the landscape with its arching leaves and delicate flower spikes.
Elymus hystrix, commonly known as Bottlebrush Grass, is a native perennial grass found in woodlands, prairies, and moist, shady areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, moist soils and prefers partial to full shade, though it can tolerate some sun.
This grass features arching, narrow, dark green leaves and produces loose, elongated flower spikes in late spring to early summer. The flower spikes, which are often tinged with purple, gradually mature into seed heads that provide food for birds and other wildlife. Elymus hystrix typically grows to a height of 2 to 4 feet, with a graceful, clump-forming habit.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Elymus hystrix is an excellent choice for shaded gardens, woodland restoration, or naturalized landscapes, particularly in areas with moist soils. It is a low-maintenance, hardy grass that provides ecological benefits by supporting pollinators and offering food for wildlife. Its deep fibrous roots also make it an effective plant for erosion control in shady, moist areas. Additionally, it adds texture and movement to the landscape with its arching leaves and delicate flower spikes.
Elymus hystrix, commonly known as Bottlebrush Grass, is a native perennial grass found in woodlands, prairies, and moist, shady areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, moist soils and prefers partial to full shade, though it can tolerate some sun.
This grass features arching, narrow, dark green leaves and produces loose, elongated flower spikes in late spring to early summer. The flower spikes, which are often tinged with purple, gradually mature into seed heads that provide food for birds and other wildlife. Elymus hystrix typically grows to a height of 2 to 4 feet, with a graceful, clump-forming habit.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Elymus hystrix is an excellent choice for shaded gardens, woodland restoration, or naturalized landscapes, particularly in areas with moist soils. It is a low-maintenance, hardy grass that provides ecological benefits by supporting pollinators and offering food for wildlife. Its deep fibrous roots also make it an effective plant for erosion control in shady, moist areas. Additionally, it adds texture and movement to the landscape with its arching leaves and delicate flower spikes.
Bloom: summer
Habitats: areas along woodland paths; mesic deciduous woodlands; partially shaded riverbanks; rocky glades; rocky upland woodlands; savannas; small meadows in wooded areas; woodland borders; woodland openings
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to slightly dry
Plant type (height): grass (2.5 to 5 feet)
Requirements: partial sun to light shade
Soil: loamy soil that contains organic matter