Silky Wild Rye

Elymus villosus

$29.99

$34.99

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Ships the week of October 12.

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3-Pack

3 Plants

$10.00/plant

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6 Plants

$9.17/plant

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32 Plants

$4.66/plant

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About this Plant

Silky Wild Rye (Elymus villosus) is a fast-growing, cool-season native grass that brings graceful movement and golden texture to shady garden spaces.

In summer, this species sends up soft, silky seedheads that arch and shimmer gently in the breeze. These seedheads take on a warm golden hue in fall and provide visual interest through winter if left standing. Silky Wild Rye often takes the lead in young plantings, filling in rapidly to stabilize soil and add structure. As slower-growing perennials mature, it may naturally fade, but allowing seedheads to drop—or collecting seed—can help encourage its gentle return.

Why Choose Silky Wild Rye?

Quick establishment – One of the first to fill out in new plantings.
Shade-tolerant native – Ideal for woodland edges and filtered light.
Winter interest – Silky golden seedheads offer beauty through the off-season.

Plant Silky Wild Rye in part to full shade with average to moist soil, and enjoy its role as a fast-starting, softly textured native grass that plays well with others.

Maintenance Tips

As a relatively shot-lived perennial, consider allowing some seedlings to take root every couple of years to enable this great plant to persist in your garden

Details

Soil Types

Soil Moisture

Sun Exposure

Hardiness Zone

USDA 3–8

Plant Type

Grass

Mature Height

Mature Width

Bloom Color

Green

Bloom Time

Root Type

Fibrous

Silky Wild Rye

$29.99$34.99

Ecological Benefits

Soil Stabilizing

Deep roots help prevent erosion and stabilize soil.

Deer Resistant

Less likely to be browsed by deer.

Pet Safe

Non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Birds

Seeds or berries provide food for birds.

Attracts Pollinators

Provides nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators.

Attracts Butterflies

A nectar source that draws butterflies throughout the season.

Drought Tolerant

Thrives with minimal watering once established.

Butterfly Host

Supports butterfly caterpillars as a host plant.

Yard Friendly

A well-behaved growth habit that won't take over your yard.

What Folks Are Saying

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