Canadian wild rye

Canadian wild rye (Elymus canadensis), proposed by AKÈNE

?? An essential native grass for soil stabilization ??

Canadian wildrye is a native perennial grass recognized for its key ecological role in preventing erosion and restoring degraded habitats . With its deep, robust roots , it stabilizes soils on beaches, dunes, slopes and disturbed sites. It can grow up to 1.25 metres tall and produces long, elegant, pendulous spikes , which add interesting texture to landscapes and natural meadows.

?? Ideal for ecological restoration and bioremediation projects , it is also a food source for many granivorous birds thanks to its small edible seeds.

Characteristics of the variety

?? Flowering : June to September
?? Height : 125 cm
?? Spacing : 75 cm
?? Exposure : Sun
?? Life cycle : Perennial
?? Soil type : Sandy to loamy, well drained
?? Soil moisture content : Dry to medium
?? Deer Resistance : Moderate
?? Seeds per packet : 300

Sowing and cultivation

?? Sowing depth : 10 mm
?? Germination time : 10 to 15 days
?? Cold stratification : 60 days
? Scarification : Not required

?? Indoor method (recommended for faster germination) :
1?? Mix the seeds with a moist substrate ( sand, perlite or vermiculite ) and place them in an airtight bag in the refrigerator for 60 days .
2?? After stratification, spread the seeds on the surface of the potting soil , press lightly to ensure good contact with the soil.
3?? Keep the soil moist until germination (about 15 days ), without excess humidity or temperature.

?? Outdoor method :
?? Sow directly in the fall to allow natural stratification during the winter.
?? Ensure good soil contact and maintain moderate humidity to encourage seedling emergence in spring.

?? Once established, this plant grows vigorously and spreads rapidly, forming a dense ground cover.

Medicinal and culinary uses

?? An edible but little-exploited grain
The seeds of Canadian wild rye are edible , although small and requiring laborious processing . They are eaten by several species of birds and can be used in the restoration of natural meadows .

Ecological roles and utilities

??? A natural soil stabilizer : Particularly effective against erosion of dunes, beaches and slopes .
?? A refuge and a food source for wildlife : Its seeds feed many granivorous birds .
?? A tool for ecological restoration : Used to revegetate degraded and contaminated soils in bioremediation.
?? Establishes quickly thanks to its vigorous seedlings and dense growth from the first year.

Companion plants

?? Aster, goldenrod, echinacea, panicum erectum

Enemy plants

?? None known

Why grow Canadian wild rye?

?? An excellent ally for soil stabilization
?? A resilient and aesthetic native grass
?? An asset for biodiversity and local fauna
??? An ideal choice for ecological restoration and bioremediation projects

?? Integrate Canadian wild rye into your developments to restore natural environments and strengthen ecosystems!