Elymus cinereus - Great Basin Wild Rye

This grass is a British Columbia native, but will eventually be grown around the world by virtue of its outstanding ornamental qualities. Because the blossoms are held high above the coarse foliage they will catch the slightest breeze. Best appreciated when planted in lawn areas, where it will provide a focal point for many years.

I see this plant growing in single clumps along the Kettle River in southern British Columbia (see photos on the left). It is quite noticeable even at highway speeds. Our area (Zone 5) is very hot and dry (less than 17" precipitation annually) but it is thriving.

When provided with ideal conditions, Great basin wild rye will be transformed from a rather common native to a showpiece specimen.

Description: cool season; clump forming
Foliage - wide and green to blue-green in colour; 80-100 cm (32-40") tall
Flowers - June-July; 120-150 cm (48-60") in height

Ideal conditions: full sun to part shade; moist fertile soil; grows well in open meadows; tolerates a wide range of conditions

Coldest Zone: 3 (find your zone; further info on plant hardiness)

Season of interest: June onwards

Recommended spacing between plants: 60-100cm (24-40") why such a difference?

Native to: western half of North America, from BC, AB, SK to Mexican border

Drought tolerance rating: 1 (water to root depth once every month) further info

Pronunciation: Elymus (eh-LYE-mus) cinereus (sin-er-EE-us)

Sizes available: flat of 25 plugs     Canadian price list   ||   US price list

More ornamental grasses

Compare Elymus cinereus to our other grasses in this handy chart.