Blue Wild Rye
Elymus glaucafam. Poaceae
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Pl. 09AE — Elymus glauca
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IOverview
Overview
Blue Wild Rye, scientifically known as Elymus glauca, is a perennial grass native to the western and central United States, as well as parts of Canada and Alaska. This hardy plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It is known for its ornamental value and edible seeds, which are often used in traditional cuisines. One distinctive feature of Blue Wild Rye is its ability to grow up to 1 meter tall, adding a striking presence to any landscape while fulfilling its role as an important food source.
Quick answers
What is Blue Wild Rye?
Blue Wild Rye, scientifically known as Elymus glauca, is a perennial grass native to the western and central United States, as well as parts of Canada and Alaska.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Blue Wild Rye thrives in full sun and is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It prefers dry to moist conditions and grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8. This perennial reaches a height of about 1 meter and can be propagated through seed. Ensure the plant has adequate drainage while maintaining consistent moisture during establishment. Harvest its edible seeds for culinary use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Blue Wild Rye for the first time
8steps
Start with Blue Wild Rye by planting it in a sunny spot and providing minimal care.
- 1
What you'll need
A packet of Blue Wild Rye seeds, a trowel, and some mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep in the ground. Space them about 30 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist until germination. Water only if there is no rain.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water sparingly, especially once established. Mow or cut back in late fall to prevent seed spread.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead foliage and spent flowers for a tidy appearance. Harvest seeds when they turn brown.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too close together, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The seeds of Blue Wild Rye are edible and can be harvested for consumption. They are typically prepared by drying before grinding into flour or eaten whole. The grains can also be cooked like rice to add a nutritious component to meals.
Other uses:Erosion controlWeaving material
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
29 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
29 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 29 native· 1 introduced
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Arizona, Arkansas, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Manitoba, Mexico Northwest, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Northwest Territorie, Oklahoma, Ontario, Oregon, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Yukon
introduced:New York
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Poaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Poaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Growing zone
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 09ae6c42-2c4d-4907-a6d7-edc8a89985da
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