Riverbank Wildrye
Elymus riparius
Last reviewed: June 2026
Elymus riparius (Riverbank Wildrye) is a native grass found throughout eastern and midwestern United States, blooming from June through August. This adaptable perennial grass tolerates various moisture conditions and provides habitat value in riparian areas.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Riverbank Wildrye as toxic to livestock.
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.
Growing Riverbank Wildrye
Grow Riverbank Wildrye in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- Where is Elymus riparius naturally found?
- Riverbank Wildrye is native to 29 states across the eastern and midwestern United States, from Maine south to Florida and west to Minnesota and Arkansas.
- When does Riverbank Wildrye bloom?
- Elymus riparius typically blooms during the summer months of June, July, and August.
- What growing conditions does this grass prefer?
- Riverbank Wildrye grows well in partial sun conditions with medium moisture levels, though it can adapt to a range of light and water conditions.
- Is Riverbank Wildrye toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Riverbank Wildrye as toxic to livestock.
- Is Riverbank Wildrye HOA-friendly?
- Riverbank Wildrye takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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 Riverbank Wildrye? 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