Wildrye, Virginia
(Elymus virginicus)
This cool-season bunchgrass is native to the eastern two-thirds of the U.S. It is shade tolerant and prefers moister soils. Virginia Wildrye provides forage for livestock and large game animals. Birds and small mammals will forage on seeds and utilize plant parts for nests and dens. It makes a good component of grass mixtures used in conservation and restoration projects.