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Description
Elymus Caninus, also known as Bearded Wheatgrass or Canary Wild Rye, is a perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and has been introduced to North America, where it is commonly used for forage and erosion control. Its scientific name comes from the Greek words elymos, which means “a kind of grain,” and caninus, which means “of a dog.”
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Elymus |
| Species | Caninus |
Appearance
Elymus Caninus has a clumping growth habit and can reach a height of up to 4 feet. It has long, narrow leaves that are blue-green in color and have a rough texture. The leaves have a prominent midrib and are hairy at the base. In the summer, it produces tall spikes of flowers that are green to purplish-brown in color. The flowers are followed by seeds that are enclosed in husks.
Care Guide
Water: Elymus Caninus prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions. Water deeply once a week during the growing season.Fertilization: Elymus Caninus does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring.Soil: Elymus Caninus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.Sunlight: Elymus Caninus prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Elymus Caninus is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests and Diseases
Elymus Caninus is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to rust, leaf spots, and root rot. It is also attractive to grasshoppers and other chewing insects.
Habitat
Elymus Caninus is native to Europe and Western Asia and is commonly found in meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It has been introduced to North America and is commonly used for forage and erosion control.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to plant Elymus Caninus?
A: Elymus Caninus can be planted in the spring or fall.Q: How often should I water Elymus Caninus?
A: Water deeply once a week during the growing season.Q: What is the ideal soil type for Elymus Caninus?
A: Elymus Caninus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Q: Is Elymus Caninus invasive?
A: Elymus Caninus is not considered invasive but can spread if not contained.
Related Plants
- Elymus canadensis
- Elymus glaucus
- Elymus repens
- Elymus trachycaulus
References
- USDA Plants Database: Elymus caninus
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Elymus caninus
- Washington Native Plant Society: Elymus caninus
