Giant Wild Rye is an evergreen bunching grass native to California and northern Mexico. Growing naturally in scrub, chaparral, and woodland communities, it is highly drought tolerant although it may show signs of stress during times of extreme drought. Forms clumps of silvery blue-green foliage that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Useful in native plant community revegetation and restoration projects. Not typically used in small scale gardens or landscapes as it can grow quite vigorously and overtake other plants. Prefers full sun to part shade. Water infrequently to not at all once established. Tolerant of sand, clay, serpentine soil, and seasonal flooding. Note that the nomenclature continues to go back and forth on this genus, alternating between Leymus and Elymus. We also grow a more garden-friendly cultivar called ‘Canyon Prince’ that has lovely silvery blue foliage and stays smaller and more compact than the species.
- Common Name:
- Giant Wild Rye
- Mature Height:
- 4-6'
- Mature Spread:
- 2-3'
- Exposure:
- Sun/Part Sun
- Growth:
- Evergreen
- Flower Color:
- Brown
