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Virginia wild rye (Elymus virginicus) is an upright perennial grass that grows 60 to 120 cm tall, forming tight clumps. Its stiff stems bear long, narrow leaves of bright to medium green, slightly rough to the touch. In summer, it produces straight or gently arching spikes with fine awns that give the plant an elegant, graceful appearance. Virginia wild rye grows in a wide range of habitats, including wet meadows, forest edges, ditches, and stream banks. Its fast growth and dense root system make it an excellent choice for soil stabilization and erosion control, particularly along rivers and slopes.
Ecological roles
Virginia wild rye plays an important role in preventing soil erosion through its deep, fibrous roots that stabilize banks and slopes. It also helps retain moisture and improves soil structure. Its seeds provide food for many seed-eating birds, including sparrows and wild turkeys, while its foliage offers shelter for various insects and small mammals. In natural environments, it contributes to vegetation recovery in disturbed areas and enhances plant diversity in meadows and woodland edges.
Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.
Sowing and Growing
Technical Details
Seeds per packet:
Family: Poaceae
Scientific name: Elymus virginicus
Life cycle: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 4
Soil type: Sandy to clayey
Soil moisture level: Dry to humid
Soil - additional attributes: Well-drained. Prefers moist, clayey and rich soils.
Light: Sun, part shade
Blooming: July to September
Spacing: 45 cm
Height: 120 cm
Deer resistance: High
Stratification: No
Scarification: No
Germination time: 7 to 14 days
Sowing depth: 6-12 mm in loamy to clayey soils; 25 mm in sandy soils