Silky Wild Rye (Elymus villosus) | Prairie Restorations

Silky Wild Rye

Elymus villosus

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

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.