Canyon Prince Giant Wild Rye — Leymus condensatus 'Canyon Prince'

Leymus condensatus 'Canyon Prince' (also known as Elymus condensatus 'Canyon Prince')

A California native grass selection with broad blue-gray foliage and a strong upright form. Use it as a bold accent in Southern California native landscapes with room for a spreading colony.

Growing profile

• Light: Full sun to part sun.
• Water: Regular watering during establishment, then occasional deep irrigation as needed. Very drought tolerant once established.
• Mature size: Foliage about 4 feet tall and wide; flowering stems can reach 6 feet. Underground growth can expand beyond the initial planting.
• Soil: Adaptable, including heavy clay; avoid persistent stagnant water.
• Growth rate: Fast, upright and spreading.
• Wildlife: Provides cover and nesting material for birds. Its wind-pollinated flowers are grown for texture rather than nectar.
• Care: Remove dead foliage and spent stalks; cut back untidy growth before a new growth flush and manage spreading edges.
• Uses: Large perennial borders, native meadow accents, broad slopes and habitat gardens. Give it space away from small neighboring plants.

Species reference photograph of Leymus condensatus. The cultivar shown is unverified. Photo by Stickpen, public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.