Elymus villosus (Silky wildrye grass)

Silky wildrye thrives in deciduous woodlands, shaded slopes, and moist meadows, typically growing 2 to 3 feet tall. It is one of only a few native grasses that thrive in shade and is adaptable to moist to semi-dry conditions. This grass is distinguished from other Elymus (wild ryes) by its soft, dense, nodding seed heads, which emerge in early to mid-summer, adding texture to natural landscapes.

 

We find dense plantings of Elymus species, especially Elymus villosa, can combat Japanese stiltgrass, which occupies the same habitat. Silky wildrye will form dense clumps in about one year of growth. We've seen colonies of silky wildrye growing in deciduous woodlands with thick carpets of English Ivy. In time it will slowly seed itself into an area.

 

Elymus species are cool season grasses, making new active growth from fall to spring and dying back in summer, but leaving the attractive seedheads up through autumn and winter. Its rough, hairy texture makes wildrye typically unappealing to deer, providing a hardy grass option in areas with heavy deer browsing. Birds and mammals use the dry leaves and stems for nesting material and shelter. Small mammals consume the seeds. Elymus villosus is a host plant for a few insects, including the False wainscot moth (Leucania pseudargyria).

 

This grass pairs well in a woodland or shade garden with shade tolerant shrubs and wildflowers, or as a single species spread over a wide area, or in rain gardens.