Elymus hystrix

Bottlebrush Grass is a deciduous shade-loving perennial. Although it may be dormant in the heat of summer, once it starts to cool down you may see them blooming in woodland areas. The unique inflorescence of the blooms is eye-catching, even if their bloom is green or brown. The bloom is pointy but isn’t sharp, allowing for interest for gardeners who are visually impaired as well, making this a wonderful plant to be enjoyed by everyone. Like many plants in the grass family, Bottlebrush Grass provides habitat for beneficial insects and other critters overwinter, and it is also a host plant for Northern Pearly Eye larvae. It is also a great grass to use if your garden has deep shade, as it can tolerate it and even prefers it. Its deep root system makes it drought resistant once established, and it provides excellent erosion control as well. It can even be planted under black walnut trees!