Riverbank Wildrye
Elymus riparius
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, CT, DE, FL and 24 more states
Riverbank wildrye is a tall native grass that forms upright clumps with arching blue-green foliage. It produces attractive seed heads in summer and provides excellent texture in naturalized areas and rain gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Riverbank Wildrye takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very tall height appears wild and unkempt
- Dormant winter appearance looks messy
- Natural growth habit lacks formal structure
Wildlife value
This grass serves as a host plant for several butterfly species and provides nesting material for birds. The seeds attract various songbirds in late summer and fall.
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.
Does Riverbank Wildrye fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.