Illinois Native Plant Guide

Virginia Wild Rye
Elymus virginicus

Preferred Water Depth and Inundation Tolerance

Prefers moist soil. Species tolerates inundation up to a depth of 6 inches. Can also tolerate dry soils.

Wildlife Value

Palatable to grazing species.

Application/Zone

Used in upper shoreline zones, for streambank stabilization, for upland slope buffers, and in vegetated swales.

Availability, Establishment, and Maintenance

• Fall and spring seeding is successful.
• Can become aggressive if seeded too heavily.

Virginia Wild Rye
Elymus virginicus

Mature Height
Up to 3 feet

Plant Type
Perennial grass

Indicator Status
Facultative Wet (-)

pH
Not available

Nutrient Load Tolerance
Moderate

Salt Tolerance
Not available

Siltation Tolerance
Moderate

Flowering Color and Time
Tan
June to October

Light Preference
Partial to full sun

Seeding Rate
.06 - 1.0 lbs/acre

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