Elymus elymoides
(Raf.) Swezey
Squirreltail
(c) Mike Andersen, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-ND), uploaded by Mike Andersen
(c) Matt Lavin, some rights reserved (CC BY)
(c) caithdg, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
What to Eat
Edible parts: Seeds
The genus Elymus is a part of the Poaceae, the grass family, which is the most economically important plant family to modern human civilization. If crested wheatgrass is used in rehabilitation or restoration of a site, then co-planting a native bunch grass, such as E. elymoides, may be helpful in preventing a crested wheatgrass monoculture. Because E. elymoides populations decline when introduced to certain populations, squirreltail may benefit more from a monoculture setting. This characteristic is supported by another species, Elymus nutas. However, although it is successful as a monoculture food source, it results in a reduction of carbon transfer and decreased soil health when grown alone. To preserve a prosperous Elymus elymoides food source, one must take into consideration its effects on the soil when grown alone, and its responses to competitive forces if grown with other plants.
Where to Find It
It is a temperate plant.
How to Identify
A grass.
Wikipedia
Source ↗Elymus elymoides is a species of wild rye known by the common name squirreltail. This grass is native to central and western North America.
Names & Synonyms
References (1)
- http://www.stoller-eser.com/Flora/ethnobotany_table.htm (As Sitanion hystrix)
