Overview
Elymus magellanicus is a tufted grass like in the genus Elymus, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Elymus magellanicus grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include ornamental grass, erosion control and wildlife habitat. It is native to Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Argentina South, Chile South and Falkland Is..
About
Elymus magellanicus, commonly known as Magellan rye grass or blue wheatgrass, is a tufted, deciduous grass-like plant in the Poaceae family. It grows to a height of 0.5 to 1 metre with a spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full height over 2 to 5 years. This cultivar thrives in full sun and can be grown in a variety of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, favouring moist but well-drained or well-drained conditions with acid to neutral pH. It is suitable for both exposed and sheltered sites and offers seasonal interest during summer and autumn.
About the genus
Elymus is a genus of perennial plants with approximately 150 species in the grass family, related to rye, wheat, and other widely grown cereal grains.
Wikipedia contributors, "Elymus (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Elymus (plant)
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Elymus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Elymus magellanicus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental grass, Erosion control, Wildlife habitat
- Native to
- Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Argentina South, Chile South, Falkland Is.
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Elymus magellanicus
- Cultivation
- Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; tolerates a range of soil types; drought tolerant once established
- Pruning
- Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth
- Propagation
- Seed, division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Elymus magellanicus?
Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; tolerates a range of soil types; drought tolerant once established.
Where is the best place to plant Elymus magellanicus?
Elymus magellanicus prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Elymus magellanicus need?
Elymus magellanicus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
How do I prune Elymus magellanicus?
Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth.
How big does Elymus magellanicus grow?
Elymus magellanicus reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Elymus magellanicus hardy in the UK?
Elymus magellanicus has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Elymus magellanicus?
Seed, division.
