Canada Wild Rye- Elymus canadensis

Phonetic: EL-ih-mus ka-nah-DEN-sis

Canada wild rye, is a cool-season perennial grass. It thrives in full sun and prefers moderately moist to dry, well-drained soils, though it is hardy, able to grow in sandy and gravelly soils. Canada wild rye grows quickly, making it one of the first grasses to establish in prairie restorations and disturbed sites. Its arching, bristled seed heads and graceful form add texture and movement to gardens,  while also helping to stabilize soils and prevent erosion through its fibrous root system.

Canada wild rye blooms from early to mid-summer, typically between June and August. The plant produces tall, slender flowering spikes that can reach up to five feet in height, with long, distinctive awns (bristle-like extensions) that give it a soft, nodding appearance. The flowers are wind-pollinated and by late summer to early fall, they mature into clusters of grain-like fruits called caryopses. These seeds provide a valuable food source for songbirds, small mammals, and game birds, while also reseeding naturally to maintain populations in favorable habitats.

Although wind-pollinated, Canada wild rye indirectly benefits pollinators by creating shelter, and nesting material for native bees. It also serves as a host plant for several butterfly and moth species, including the dusted skipper and crossline skipper whose larvae feed on its foliage. In native gardens, Canada wild rye is valued for its fast growth, adaptability, and visual interest. It is ideal for sun gardens where it pairs beautifully with perennials such as black-eyed Susan and purple coneflower.

• Hardiness Zone: 3-8
• Native Region: BONAP Map
• BONAP Map Key Color Guide: Map Color Key
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun- Part Shade
• Flower Color: Green
• Bloom Time: March, April, May, June 
• Soil Type: Dry- Medium 
• Mature Plant Size: 2-5' H 2-3'W
• Plant Spacing: 2-3'
• Host Plant: Zabulon skipper butterfly, Dusted Skipper, Crossline Skipper
• Attracts: Butterflies 
• Advantages: Deer Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Poor Soil Tolerant, Erosion Control
• Landscape Uses: Sun Garden
• Companion Plants: Purple Coneflower, New England Aster, Big Bluestem, Butterfly Weed