Canada Wildrye seeds can be sown in spring or autumn. Cold stratification generally improves both germination rate and uniformity.
Sale
Sold out
Native grass
Poaceae
Native prairie grasses
Canada Wildrye (Elymus canadensis) – Seeds
Elymus canadensis
Hardy native grass with long arching spikes and blue-green foliage. Canada wildrye establishes quickly, stabilizes soil, and brings movement, structure, and wildlife value to naturalized meadows and restoration plantings.
Quantity
Minimum of 300 seeds
Exposure
Full sun to light partial shade
Hardiness
Zones 3 to 8
Difficulty level
Low
Discover the plant
Family
Poaceae
Genus
Elymus
Species
canadensis
Cultivar
Type
Native grass
Cycle
Perennial
Canada Wildrye (Elymus canadensis) is a native, cool-season perennial grass recognized for its upright habit and long, gracefully arching spikes with prominent awns. Green to blue-green foliage forms loose, attractive clumps that bring height, texture, and movement to naturalistic landscapes. From June through September, the green flower spikes gradually mature to warm golden beige and remain ornamental into fall and part of winter. This exceptionally hardy species generally reaches 90 to 150 cm and is especially well suited to meadows, open woodland edges, and projects designed to showcase native plants of Quebec and Canada while providing a strong early framework for new ecological plantings.
Canada wildrye performs best in full sun but tolerates light partial shade. It adapts to many soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay-based sites, as long as drainage is adequate. Moderate moisture supports establishment, while well-rooted plants tolerate short periods of drought. A light application of compost in spring is usually sufficient because excessive fertilization may produce softer stems that lean or lodge. In Quebec, sow in fall or after moist cold stratification, then keep the growing medium lightly moist until germination. Leave the stems standing through winter for structure and habitat, and cut them back only before new spring growth begins.
Canada wildrye suits flowering meadows, naturalized strips, slopes, woodland edges, well-drained rain gardens, and ecological restoration projects. Its fibrous root system helps stabilize fragile soil, while its mature seeds provide food for certain seed-eating birds. Clumps and standing stems also shelter insects and other small beneficial organisms. This native grass pairs naturally with black-eyed Susans, wild bergamot, native goldenrods, and butterfly milkweed. Its relatively rapid establishment provides useful early vegetation in new restoration sites, although it may become less prominent as slower-growing perennial species mature. The arching spikes create an especially attractive display when planted in groups where they can move freely in the wind.
Planting guide
From planting to establishment.
Planting depth
Surface sow or cover very lightly
Spacing / density
45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 in)
Establishment temperature
18 to 20°C
Establishment time
7 to 21 days
Best planting time
Spring after the last frost
Propagation
Seed or clump division
Growing method
Sow Canada Wildrye seeds in autumn or spring after a short period of cold stratification to improve germination. Surface sow or cover the seeds only lightly, then maintain consistent moisture until seedlings emerge. Choose a location in full sun with well-drained soil that retains slight moisture during establishment. This hardy native grass establishes quickly and requires very little maintenance once rooted. Its extensive root system makes it highly effective for soil stabilization and ecological restoration, while its graceful arching seed heads provide ornamental interest well into winter.
Soil and care
The right conditions.
Exposure
Full sun to light partial shade
Soil pH
5.5 to 7.5
Hardiness zone
Zones 3 to 8
Minimum temperature
Approximately -40°C
Watering
Moderate during establishment; tolerates short droughts afterward
Soil type
Sandy, loamy, or clay soil with good drainage
Fertilization
Light compost in spring; avoid overfeeding
Seasonal care
In early spring, cut the dry stems back to a few centimetres above the soil before new growth begins. Apply a thin layer of compost around the clumps without covering the crowns. During the first season, water whenever the soil begins to dry to encourage deep root development. Established plants mainly need supplemental water during prolonged drought. Avoid rich fertilizers, which may produce soft stems that bend or lodge. In fall, retain the seed heads to feed birds and extend the ornamental display. The standing stems also provide valuable winter shelter for insects and other small beneficial wildlife.
Container growing
A controlled environment.
Recommended pot size
30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in)
Canada Wildrye grows well in large, deep containers at least 30 cm (12 in) deep with excellent drainage. Use a light growing medium enriched with compost to encourage healthy root development. This native grass performs well on sunny patios and terraces. Occasional watering during prolonged dry periods helps maintain vigorous growth, while its upright form adds structure and movement to naturalistic plantings.
Bloom and dimensions
The complete profile.
Flower color
Green maturing to golden beige
Foliage color
Green to blue-green
Foliage type
Deciduous
Growth rate
Fast to moderate
Bloom period
June to September
Fruiting
Caryopses carried on long arching spikes
Maximum height
150 cm
Maximum width
75 cm per clump
Harvest
August to September
Garden associations
What to plant with it.
Good companions
Black-eyed Susans, wild bergamot, goldenrods, butterfly milkweed
Avoid planting with
Blue flag iris, cardinal flower, marsh marigold, horsetail
Meadow, slope, naturalization, stabilization, and restoration
From the garden to inspiration.
Frequently asked questions
Everything toknow.
Yes. Canada Wildrye adapts well to a wide range of well-drained soils and requires very little maintenance once established.
Yes. Its seeds provide food for birds, while its dense clumps offer valuable shelter for numerous beneficial insects.
Yes. Its vigorous root system and adaptability make Canada Wildrye an excellent species for soil stabilization, revegetation, and ecological restoration projects.
Cut back the previous year's stems in spring before new growth begins and apply a light layer of compost if desired. Otherwise, this hardy native grass requires very little maintenance.
Its strengths, naturally.
Not recommended for pets
Pets
Attracts or supports pollinating insects
Pollinators
Plants that attract butterflies
Butterflies
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer
Deer
