Bottlebrush Grass (Elymus hystrix) | Prairie Restorations

Bottlebrush Grass

Elymus hystrix

Bottlebrush Grass is an attractive, shade-tolerant grass that grows 2 to 5 feet tall, with distinctive bristly seed heads resembling a bottlebrush. It thrives in woodlands, riverbanks, and floodplains, preferring loamy soils. This species provides excellent cover for wildlife and is a host plant for several butterfly species. Its ornamental seed heads add texture and visual interest to woodland gardens and shaded borders, making it a great choice for naturalized plantings and erosion control on shaded slopes.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant, Seed
Type	Graminoid
Sun	Partial Sun, Shade
Soil	Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture	Dry, Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches)	48
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	12
Dominance	Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.