Description
Silky Wild Rye
Silky Wild Rye (Elymus villosus) is an attractive and versitle native grass. Able to strive in shaded, woodland areas as well as areas with some sun, it’s a perfect addition to shade gardens, woodland edges, and deeper woodland and forest floors. Rich, dark green leaves alternate up the stem ranging from 12-36″ in height. Silky hairs cover the top of the leaves which is where it gets it’s name. Long seedheads, up to 5″ long, form in the Summer months. Fall brings robust maroon and red leaves and the seedhead will bend and droop under the weight of the seeds giving it it’s distinct look.
An excellent source of habitat for many different insects, pollinators, and other wildlife.
Grows in a variety of soil types from moist to dry and in limited sun exposure. A perfect addition to fill out a shade or woodland edge wilflower garden. Also consider planting in areas of fresh buckthorn removal to help combat the return of the invasive species.
Don’t forget to add the Grass!
The addition of native grass to any native wildflower garden has many benefits! Native grasses provide support and protection for wildflowers. They establish a ground cover to help prevent unwanted weeds from growing. They create a more natural environment and pollinator habitat and increase the overall fullness and beauty of wildflower gardens. MNL makes it easy to add native grass by offering Short and Tall Prairie Grass kits, as well as single species trays of native grasses and sedges for a variety of growing conditions. Save $10 when you pair a grass kit or single species tray to your wildflower plant kit order!
