Elymus villosus

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Elymus Villosus 2 Elymus Villosus Elymus Villosus 3 Elymus Villosus 1
Elymus Villosus 2 Elymus Villosus Elymus Villosus 3 Elymus Villosus 1

Elymus villosus

Common Name: Silky Wild Rye

Silky Wild Rye is a clump-forming, shade-tolerant grass that grows 2 to 4 feet tall, featuring softly hairy stems and nodding seed heads. Found in woodlands and shaded riverbanks, it prefers rich loamy soils but adapts to a range of conditions. This grass provides cover for small mammals and birds while stabilizing soil and preventing erosion in shaded areas. It is ideal for woodland restorations, shaded garden plantings, and erosion control projects where other grasses may struggle.

Characteristics

Type Graminoid
Sun Partial Sun, Shade
Soil Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture Dry, Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches) 40
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 12
Dominance Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful 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.