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Elymus hystrix is fantastic native alternative for ornamental grasses. While the leaves can reach up to 3-4’, they are clumping, so will not spread aggressively by rhizomes. They are also a cool-season grass, with new growth emerging in later winter/early spring, creating a fresh look early in the growing season. The deep, fibrous roots also allow this species to be drought-tolerant, and is a great choice for rain gardens and areas of erosion, such as streambanks. Elymus hystrix does best in part-sun or dappled shade, tolerates poor soils, and can grow under black walnut. The flowers appear in early summer, with the characteristic “bottle-brush” appearance, lasting into fall as the seeds form. Seed heads can be trimmed to avoid reseeding.
One of the main wildlife benefits of Elymus hystrix is probably the shelter these grasses provide. They form large clumps with long leaves that create structure for shelters and nests of different animals in warmer months, while the leaves cover the ground in winter, providing a cover for many insect species to remain protected from cold. Several species of butterflies and moths feed on the leaves as well, making it a beneficial host plant and natural bird feeder.
Host Plant for Butterflies/Moths: Northern Pearly-eye (Lethe anthedon), Zabulon Skipper (Lon zabulon), and 7+ other species.
Wildlife Value: shelter, winter cover
Deer Resistance: Excellent
Native Region: Appalachian Mountains, Piedmont
Seed Origin: Ashe County - NC
Ecoregion: 66 - Blue Ridge
Light Recommendation: Part-sun, Dappled Shade
Soil Moisture Recommendation: Medium-Wet, Moist, Medium
USDA Zones: 5-9
States found in our region: AL, DE, GA, KY, MD, NC, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Other states found: AR, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, MA, ME, MI, MN, MO, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, RI, SD, VT, WI
