Elymus virginicus L., Virginia wildrye 
DESCRIPTION 
Cool-season, perennial bunch grass. 
Height: 3-1/2 to 4 feet. 
Leaf blade: Wide; flat. 
Leaf sheath: Rounded; smooth; almost as long as internodes. 
Seedhead: Spike, which tends to nod or bend over; glumes 
with long awns. 
GROWTH CHARACTERISTICS 
In the South, growth starts in late fall when daily temperature 
is 50° to 60° F. Grows best under 20- to 30-percent shade and in 
association with other grasses. Produces seed in May and early 
June. Becomes dormant during hot summer months. Most of the 
leaves grow widely spaced along the stem rather than from the 
base of plant. For this reason, Virginia wildrye is not a high for- 
age producer. 
DISTRIBUTION 
Throughout most of United States and southern Canada. 
SITE ADAPTATION 
Grows principally on moist soils in woodlands and along drain- 
ageways that overflow occasionally. Does well on light-textured 
soil that has good internal drainage. 
USE AND MANAGEMENT 
Virginia wildrye is readily grazed by all livestock and deer, 
particularly during fall, winter, and spring. Many upland game 
birds eat the seed. 
Because leaves are easily accessible to all livestock, frequent 
grazing deferments, particularly in late spring and early fall, are 
essential. 
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