Canyon Prince Wild Rye (Elymus condensatus 'Canyon Prince') is a California native, drought-tolerant ornamental grass with striking blue-green foliage. Spanning 3 to 5 feet tall and wide, it instantly creates visual interest in any garden setting.
In spring and summer, powdery blue flowers emerge 1 to 2 feet above its broad leaves on long stalks, which can be cut for floral arrangements. It is among the most popular California native grasses and used in a number of garden styles and applications. It is a hardy grower that can help stabilize slopes with its sturdy roots.
Canyon Prince Wild Rye can grow in many soil types. It is drought tolerant, but it looks its best regular garden water. It prefers full sun near the coast, and sun or part shade farther inland, where it may need more frequent watering, especially in summer.
As a specimen grass, Canyon Prince Wild Rye is quite versatile. Beyond the garden, it is attractive in large patio containers, either on its own or with companions.
This cultivar was introduced by Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. It is a horticultural selection of E.condensatus from Prince Island, near San Miguel Island.
