Contents
Description
Elymus Smithii, commonly known as Western wheatgrass, is a perennial grass species native to North America. It is a cool-season grass that grows in bunches, reaching up to 3 feet in height. The plant’s leaves are flat, narrow, and rough to the touch, with a bluish-green color. It produces a seed head with spikelets that are 1-2 inches long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Elymus |
Appearance
Elymus Smithii has a unique appearance that makes it easy to identify. Its leaves are flat, narrow, and rough to the touch, with a bluish-green color. The plant’s stems are erect and can grow up to 3 feet in height. It produces a seed head with spikelets that are 1-2 inches long. During the fall, the plant turns a beautiful golden color.
Care Guide
Elymus Smithii is relatively easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips to follow:
Water: Western wheatgrass prefers to grow in moist soil but can tolerate drought conditions once established. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.
Fertilization: Elymus Smithii does not require fertilizer but can benefit from an annual application of compost or well-rotted manure in the spring.
Soil: Western wheatgrass prefers well-draining soil but can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
Sunlight: Elymus Smithii prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Western wheatgrass is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Elymus Smithii is generally resistant to pests and diseases but can be susceptible to fungal infections, such as powdery mildew and rust. Insects, such as grasshoppers and cutworms, can also cause damage to the plant. To prevent these problems, maintain good air circulation around the plant and keep the area around the plant free of debris.
Habitat
Elymus Smithii is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, prairies, and meadows. It is an important forage plant for wildlife, including deer, elk, and bison. The plant is also used for erosion control and restoration of disturbed soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Elymus Smithii drought tolerant?
A: Yes, Western wheatgrass is drought tolerant once established.
Q: Can Elymus Smithii be grown in containers?
A: No, Western wheatgrass is not suitable for container gardening and requires a large planting area.
Q: How often should Elymus Smithii be fertilized?
A: Elymus Smithii does not require fertilizer but can benefit from an annual application of compost or well-rotted manure in the spring.
Q: What is the best time to plant Elymus Smithii?
A: The best time to plant Western wheatgrass is in the spring or fall when the soil is moist and temperatures are mild.
Related Plants
- Elymus Canadensis
- Elymus Magnum
- Elymus Repens
- Elymus Trachycaulus
References
- “Elymus Smithii,” USDA Plants Database
- “Western Wheatgrass (Elymus Smithii),” Montana Field Guide
- “Elymus Smithii,” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
