Bottle Brush Grass

Elymus hystrix (EL-ih-mus HIS-triks)

Family: Poaceae Native Herbaceous (3-15 ft)

Bottlebrush grass is a native perennial, ornamental, cool-season grass of the Northern, Central, and Eastern United States that grows 2.5 to 3 feet tall, and is usually found in woodland areas. It has a fibrous root system and forms erect clumps of grass with unbranched culms. The leaves are linear, grayish-green to dark green, simple, and alternate, with a rough texture. Its airy, spiky flowers form mid-June and are greenish and bristly, resembling a bottlebrush, and rise above the leaves. As they mature, they become brown and last into October. It is a member of the grass family (Poaceae). The genus name Elymus is derived from the Greek word elymos , or the name used for a type of grain. The specific epithet hystrix , meaning "hedgehog." This is derived from the appearance of this grass's seedheads, resembling the quills of a hedgehog. Prefers partial shade to light shade and adapts to a variety of soil conditions, including moist to dry, clay, sandy, or loamy soils. It is drought-tolerant, shade-tolerant, erosion-tolerant, and able to thrive in urban sites. It is low-maintenance and easily propagated by seed. In ideal conditions, it will self-seed and form small colonies, but it is not aggressive. In late winter, it is best practice to cut back the old foliage and seedheads before the new growth occurs. Attracts butterflies and is a larval host of the Northern Pearly Eye ( Enoida anthedon ). Birds and the white-footed mouse enjoy eating the seeds, while livestock enjoy the foliage. However, the bristly seedheads can cause mouth injuries to livestock. This ornamental grass, with its interesting seed heads, adds texture to the garden. It would be a delightful addition to a shaded woodland garden or naturalized site. The bottlebrush grass's long flower stems can be added to floral arrangements for added interest. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant insect or disease concerns. Monitor for aphids and leaf spot. Unfortunately, in some states ( for example, Maine), this grass is vulnerable to urban expansion. ,Drought-tolerant

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 61 attributes.