Eastern bottle-brush grass (Elymus hystrix)

Eastern bottle-brush grass

Also known as: Bottlebrush grass

Elymus hystrix or eastern bottle-brush grass is part of the grass family and native to eastern North America. Mice eat the seeds readily. Studies are underway to examine whether eastern bottle-brush grass can be domesticated, as a food crop for livestock or potentially even humans in the future.

Scientific classification

Species

Eastern bottle-brush grass (Elymus hystrix)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall, Early winter

Bloom Time

61 cm to 1.2 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Blue, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

8 cm to 15 cm

Flower Size

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Eastern bottle-brush grass

Distribution of Eastern bottle-brush grass

Distribution Map

Eastern bottle-brush grass is native to North America and has found its way to various parts of Eurasia. This plant has been introduced and can now be found in regions of Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and East Asia. Additionally, eastern bottle-brush grass is not just growing in the wild but is also under cultivation, indicating its adaptable nature and ability to thrive beyond its original habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rich or rocky, open woods

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Psychic powers, Protection. It symbolizes food, concealment and hardiness.

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Quickly Identify Eastern bottle-brush grass

Bottlebrush-like seed heads extend above the foliage, distinctive in appearance.

Blue-green blades that may turn yellow in fall provide seasonal interest.

Loose tufted clumps with narrow blades that self-seed modestly but are not invasive.

Delicate pale green to tan flowers bloom in loose, airy clusters from May to July.

Fruit is a bristly caryopsis on a spike, maturing to straw-like color, measuring 0.3-0.5 inches.

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Care Guide for Eastern bottle-brush grass

Twice per week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Eastern bottle-brush grass originates from temperate regions, thriving in moderate moisture. It prefers consistency in hydration, requiring watering twice a week. As an outdoor plant, it flourishes in natural light, particularly benefiting from rainfall during its growth season.

Fertilize: Eastern bottle-brush grass thrives with balanced fertilizer, applied biannually in spring and post-seeding. Use sparingly to avoid over-fertilization; lighter applications in fall aid dormancy. Opt for slow-release formulas, water before/after use, and monitor eastern bottle-brush grass's health to adjust care practices accordingly.

Pruning: Eastern bottle-brush grass has unique bottle-brush seed heads and arching stems. Prune in early spring to remove damaged growth and encourage vigorous regrowth. Cutting foliage to ground level enhances its ornamental value, prevents overcrowding, and improves air circulation, reducing disease risk.

Propagation: Eastern bottle-brush grass requires periodic division to stay vigorous. Use a sharp spade or knife to separate the clumps, ensuring each division has ample roots and shoots. Replant in well-drained soil with moderate moisture to promote healthy growth.

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