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Description
Elymus Californicus, also known as California wildrye or nodding wildrye, is a perennial bunchgrass species native to California. It belongs to the Poaceae or grass family and is commonly found in coastal areas, grasslands, and open woodlands.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Elymus |
Appearance
Elymus Californicus can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a dense, clumping growth habit. Its leaves are flat and narrow, with a bluish-green color and a rough texture. The panicles or flower spikes are nodding and can measure up to 1 foot long. They have a purplish or bronze color and bloom from April to July.
Care Guide
Elymus Californicus is a low-maintenance grass species that can thrive in various soil types and conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish roots. Afterward, it can tolerate drought and periodic flooding.
- Fertilization: Elymus Californicus does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if necessary.
- Soil: It prefers well-drained soils but can adapt to various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.
- Sunlight: It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: It grows in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Elymus Californicus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust, leaf spot, and crown rot if grown in humid conditions. To prevent these problems, avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation.
Habitat
Elymus Californicus is native to California and can be found in various habitats, including:
- Coastal prairies and bluffs
- Grasslands and meadows
- Open woodlands and chaparral
Question and Answer
Q: Is Elymus Californicus drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Elymus Californicus can tolerate drought and periodic flooding once established. However, it prefers regular watering during the first growing season to help establish roots.
Q: Can Elymus Californicus grow in clay soil?
A: Yes, Elymus Californicus can adapt to various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.
Q: What is the blooming time for Elymus Californicus?
A: Elymus Californicus blooms from April to July, producing nodding flower spikes with a purplish or bronze color.
Q: Is Elymus Californicus invasive?
A: No, Elymus Californicus is not considered invasive. It is a native grass species that can help stabilize soil and provide habitat for wildlife.
Related Plants
- Elymus condensatus (Giant Wildrye)
- Elymus glaucus (Blue Wildrye)
- Elymus triticoides (Lyme Grass)
- Elymus elymoides (Squirreltail Grass)
References
- California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Elymus californicus. Retrieved from https://www.calscape.org/Elymus-californicus-()#overview
- Las Pilitas Nursery. (n.d.). Elymus californicus. Retrieved from https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/elymus-californicus
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Elymus californicus. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=ELCA7
