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Spreading lyme

Name: Spreading lyme
Brand: Akène
SKU: AKE-SEMENCES
Price: 4.99 CAD
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Common name Bottlebrush Grass

Latin name Elymus hystrix

Quantity per packet Minimum 150 seeds

This native grass is perfectly adapted to ecological landscapes throughout Canada and contributes to habitat restoration. Its root system helps stabilize soil while providing lasting ornamental appeal.

Product information

Product
identification

Common nameBottlebrush Grass

Latin nameElymus hystrix

FamilyPoaceae

TypeNative grass

CyclePerennial

Quantity per packMinimum 150 seeds

Product
description

Bottlebrush Grass (Elymus hystrix) is an elegant native perennial grass valued for its natural habit and distinctive arching seed heads. Reaching 60 to 110 cm (24 to 43 in) tall with a spread of 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in), it brings texture, movement, and lightness to open woodlands, naturalistic borders, and ecological landscapes. From July to August, its greenish-yellow seed heads rise above the foliage and remain decorative into autumn. Hardy to USDA Zone 3, this native grass offers lasting ornamental interest with a refined, wild appearance.

Bottlebrush Grass grows in full sun to partial shade in rich, cool, well-drained sandy to loamy soil. Surface sow the seeds in autumn or in spring after a short period of cold stratification, as light helps promote germination. At 18 to 20°C (64 to 68°F), germination usually occurs in 10 to 30 days when the growing medium remains lightly moist. Moderate watering is useful during establishment, then little water is needed except during prolonged drought. A light application of compost in spring is sufficient, and cutting back dry stems before new growth begins keeps the plant tidy.

Ideal for naturalization, soil stabilization, open woodland plantings, and well-drained rain gardens, Bottlebrush Grass pairs naturally with Ostrich Fern, Wild Bergamot, Flat-Topped White Aster, and Spotted Joe-Pye Weed. Its seeds feed some seed-eating birds late in the season, while its clumps and stems provide shelter for beneficial insects. Its root system helps hold soil in place, making it a valuable native grass for ecological landscapes. Ornamental, durable, and biodiversity-friendly, Elymus hystrix brings subtle texture and movement to natural gardens.

Sowing
guide

Sowing periodAutumn or spring after cold stratification

Best time

Spring after the last frost

Sowing depthSurface sow

Spacing / density

45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 in)

Germination temperature18 to 20 °C (64 to 68 °F)

Germination time10 to 30 days

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by dividing mature clumps.

Growing
method

Sow Bottlebrush Grass seeds in autumn or spring after a short period of cold stratification to encourage uniform germination. Surface sow or cover the seeds with only a very thin layer of growing medium, as light improves germination. Keep the soil lightly moist until seedlings emerge. Plant in full sun or partial shade in rich, well-drained soil. Once established, this hardy native grass requires little maintenance and returns reliably each year. Its distinctive arching seed heads add exceptional texture and movement to naturalistic plantings.

Soil
and care

ExposureSun to partial shade

Soil

Rich, sandy to loamy, well-drained soil. This species prefers cool soil but adapts well to a variety of growing conditions.

Soil pHBottlebrush Grass

Watering

Moderate watering is recommended during establishment. Once established, this native grass tolerates short periods of drought while preferring consistently cool soil.

Fertilization

A light application of compost in spring is sufficient to support healthy growth. Rich soils or heavy fertilization are generally unnecessary for this adaptable native grass.

Care levelLow

In spring, cut back the previous season's stems before new growth begins to maintain a tidy appearance. During summer, water only during prolonged dry periods. Leave the seed heads in place through autumn, as they provide food for birds and seasonal interest. Throughout winter, the standing foliage protects the crown and offers shelter for beneficial wildlife. This hardy native grass requires very little maintenance.

Container
growing

Recommended pot size

30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in)

Bottlebrush Grass grows well in deep containers with excellent drainage. Use an organic-rich growing medium that retains slight moisture without becoming waterlogged. This native grass performs well in large containers placed in full sun or partial shade. Occasional watering during extended dry periods helps maintain dense, attractive foliage. Its graceful habit brings a natural woodland character to patios and ecological container plantings.

Bloom,
harvest
and garden

Its graceful arching seed heads add distinctive texture to woodland gardens and natural landscapes. This native grass also supports biodiversity while helping stabilize soil.

Garden use

Bottlebrush Grass is ideal for open woodland gardens, well-drained rain gardens, naturalized landscapes, and restoration projects. It pairs beautifully with native ferns, asters, and Joe-Pye Weeds. Its graceful foliage adds movement while its arching seed heads create outstanding visual interest. It also improves soil stability and supports local biodiversity, remaining attractive well into winter.

Bloom period

Distinctive arching seed heads appear from July to August, adding unique texture and ornamental interest well into autumn.

Flower colorGreenish yellow

Foliage colorGreen

Harvest

August to September

Fruiting

Decorative caryopses

Wildlife appealBeneficial wildlife

Size
and facts

Height60 to 110 cm (24 to 43 in)

Spread30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in)

Growth rateModerate

Hardiness zoneUSDA Zones 3–8

Minimum temperature-40°C (-40°F)

Foliage typeDeciduous

Papillonstrue

Insectes utilestrue

Résistant aux cerfstrue

Pet friendlytrue

Planting
partners

Good companions

Ostrich Fern, Wild Bergamot, Flat-Topped White Aster, Spotted Joe-Pye Weed

Avoid planting with

Lavender, Cotton Lavender, Sedum, Blanket Flower

Recipe
and inspiration

Bottlebrush Grass is not generally grown for culinary use but is highly valued for its ecological importance. Its seeds provide food for seed-eating birds, while its stems and clumps offer shelter for beneficial insects. Its primary value lies in naturalization, habitat restoration, and ornamental use in woodland gardens.

Frequently asked questions

When should I sow Bottlebrush Grass seeds? +

Bottlebrush Grass seeds can be sown in spring or autumn. A short period of cold stratification often improves germination and promotes more uniform seedling emergence.

Can Bottlebrush Grass grow in light shade? +

Yes. Bottlebrush Grass grows exceptionally well in open woodlands and locations receiving a few hours of direct sunlight. Its foliage remains attractive even in partial shade.

Does Bottlebrush Grass benefit wildlife? +

Yes. Its seeds feed birds, while its dense clumps provide shelter for many beneficial insects, making it an excellent grass for supporting biodiversity.

Can Bottlebrush Grass be used for naturalization? +

Yes. Its adaptability to open woodland habitats and its ability to establish natural colonies make it an excellent choice for naturalization and ecological restoration projects.

How do you care for Bottlebrush Grass? +

Very little maintenance is required. Simply cut back the old stems in spring before new growth begins.

The availability of our seeds varies depending on seasonal availability, production schedules and supplier inventory. Certain varieties may only be offered for a limited time based on their natural growth cycle, sowing period or available stock. These product pages are designed to help and inspire gardeners in choosing the right seeds for vegetable gardens, flower beds, pollinator gardens, container growing, naturalization projects and sustainable outdoor spaces.