Slender Wheatgrass
Elymus trachycaulus
Last reviewed: July 2026
Elymus trachycaulus (Slender Wheatgrass) is a native Oregon grass that blooms May through July. This drought-tolerant species attracts bees and beetles in full sun locations.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Slender Wheatgrass as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, CO, GA, IA and 19 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Slender wheatgrass is a native bunchgrass that forms attractive clumps with narrow blue-green leaves. It produces delicate seed heads in late spring through summer, then goes dormant in winter with golden-brown foliage.
Growing Slender Wheatgrass
Grow Slender Wheatgrass in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 6 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Slender Wheatgrass is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, street edge.
- Goes completely dormant and brown in winter
- May appear too informal for formal front yards
- Seed heads can look messy to some
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during the blooming period. Seeds provide food for birds and small mammals.
Common questions
- When does Slender Wheatgrass bloom?
- Elymus trachycaulus blooms from May through July, producing seed heads that attract pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Slender Wheatgrass?
- This native grass attracts bees and beetles during its flowering period.
- What growing conditions does Elymus trachycaulus prefer?
- Slender Wheatgrass thrives in full sun and tolerates low water conditions, making it suitable for drought-prone areas.
- Is Slender Wheatgrass toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Slender Wheatgrass as toxic to livestock.
- Is Slender Wheatgrass HOA-friendly?
- Slender Wheatgrass is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Slender Wheatgrass? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz