Elymus
( EL - ih - mus )
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At-A-Glance InformationThis genus of perennial cool-season clumping grasses is commonly known as Couch Grass, Wild Rye, and Wheatgrass. Although sometimes used as an ornamental grass, they are more often used for erosion control, native gardens, and landscape restoration.
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Elymus Species and Varietals
The genus Elymus is a member of the plant family Poaceae, and includes 173 species and 19 hybrids. These grasses grow well in USDA hardiness zones 3-9. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
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Elymus californicus (California Bottlebrush Grass) This species is endemic to the San Francisco Bay Area in California, and reaches up to between 3 and 6 feet tall at maturity. It produces tall, erect stems that are nearly leafless topped with an inflorescence that droops as it becomes heavier with grain. |
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Elymus canadensis (Elymus wiegandii) (Canada Wild Rye, Canadian Wildrye) This species of Wild Rye is native to much of North America, where it grows in a number of ecosystems, including woodlands, savannahs, dunes, and prairies. It is a perennial bunchgrass to 4 feet tall. These grasses are used for stabilizing eroded areas and for vegetating metal-rich soils in reclaimed mines. Cultivar 'Homestead' is best as a forage crop. |
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Elymus magellanicus (Agropyron magellanicus) (Magellan Wheatgrass) This clump-forming grass species is native to South America. Individual plants reach up to 1.5 feet tall and just as wide at maturity. Leaves are blue-green and striking in mixed beds and borders. Plants are nearly evergreen in mild climates, and also do well in containers. Summertime flowers are insignificant. |
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Caring for Elymus
Elymus, or Wheatgrass, should be planted in a space in the landscape that receives full sun. Seeds of Elymus species are sometimes included in seed mixes. Ensure that soil is well-draining, moderately fertile, and has a pH of between 5.5 and 7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline). If local soils are particularly poor in nutrients or do not drain well, make sure to amend the planting area with plenty of organic compost before installing. Apply a layer of mulch around the planting area to suppress weed growth, maintain consistent soil temperatures, and to increase soil moisture retention. Water new plantings regularly as they establish a strong root system in their new home. At maturity, these grasses are considered drought-tolerant.
Fertilize with decomposed compost that is fine in texture and well-rotted. Apply a 1/4 inch layer over the area and gently work it in to the soil using a rake or brush. Water it in thoroughly after application, and then continue care as usual. These are cool-season grasses that grow most vigorously during cool moist conditions of spring and fall and are somewhat dormant in summertime heat. They are perennial grasses that can be short-lived or long-lived depending on the species.
Fertilize with decomposed compost that is fine in texture and well-rotted. Apply a 1/4 inch layer over the area and gently work it in to the soil using a rake or brush. Water it in thoroughly after application, and then continue care as usual. These are cool-season grasses that grow most vigorously during cool moist conditions of spring and fall and are somewhat dormant in summertime heat. They are perennial grasses that can be short-lived or long-lived depending on the species.
Propagation
Elymus plants are best propagated via division. These plants will also re-seed freely in the landscape, providing seedlings that can be dug up and transplanted elsewhere. To propagate your Wheatgrass by division of existing plants, follow the instructions below:
Propagating Elymus by Division
To propagate via division, you will need a clean shovel, clean pruning saw (optional), extra pots if you are not going to immediately plant your divisions in the ground, and well-draining soil to fill the pots. To propagate your Wheatgrass by division, follow the instructions below:
Propagating Elymus by Division
To propagate via division, you will need a clean shovel, clean pruning saw (optional), extra pots if you are not going to immediately plant your divisions in the ground, and well-draining soil to fill the pots. To propagate your Wheatgrass by division, follow the instructions below:
- In early fall or early springtime, identify the area of plants you're going to divide. Start by loosening the soil around the plant with your shovel, working your way inward to avoid causing damage to the bulbs. Once you've gotten your clump out of the ground, run water over it or simply shake it to remove excess dirt. Then, lay it out on its side.
- Separate the clump into multiple pieces, each with a healthy root system and adequate above-ground growth.
- Prepare the planting area, whether it is a container or bed in the garden, and then plant the divisions. Afterwards, resume regular care.
Problems and Pests
Elymus grasses are typically pest and disease free additions to the landscape. For information on commonly encountered pests and diseases in home gardens, consult the following pages:
Gallery
These striking grasses can be grown in masses or individually.
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The blue-green foliage of Elymus magellanicus stands out against other colors.
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This prairie garden features Elymus grasses alongside Coneflower.
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Videos
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 300, Elymus magellanicus
