Elymus virginicus
Virginia Wild Rye
General
It is characterized by its tall, slender stems that can reach heights of up to five feet, bearing elongated spike-like flower clusters. Virginia wildrye thrives in a variety of habitats including open woods, meadows, and along roadsides, contributing to soil stabilization and providing food and cover for wildlife. Cool season bunch grass. Good source of food for birds, small mammals, and livestock.
Plant Description
Displays tall, erect stems adorned with linear leaves that taper to a point, giving it a graceful appearance. Its spike-like flower clusters are compact and cylindrical, adding to its visual appeal in natural settings such as meadows and open woodlands. Narrow stems, and sparse long, narrow, lance-like alternate leaves.
Height (ft)
3-6'
Soil moisture
Medium
Soil types
Variable
Wetland indicator
FACW
Shade tolerance
Tolerant, Full Sun to Partial Shade
Bloom color
Brown
Bloom period
Summer
Drought tolerance
Medium
Salinity tolerance
None
Range
Eastern United States, common going west until the Rocky Mountains, and some sparse populations past the Rocky Mountains. No populations on the West Coast.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]