Bottlebrush squirreltail (Elymus elymoides, Nebraska Fl. Pl.: 15 (1891))

Family: Poaceae

Author: (Raf.) Swezey

Bibliography: Nebraska Fl. Pl.: 15 (1891)

Year: 1891

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Elymus

Vegetable: False

Observations: W. Canada to W. & C. U.S.A. and Mexico (Coahuila)

Description

The Bottlebrush Squirreltail, known scientifically as Elymus elymoides, is a resilient and essential species of grass within the Poaceae family. First documented in “Nebraska Flora Plants” in 1891, by the botanist Rafinesque and later classified by Swezey, this grass has garnered appreciation for its environmental adaptability and ecological significance.

Elymus elymoides thrives across a diverse range of habitats, extending from Western Canada through the Western and Central United States, and reaching as far south as Coahuila in Mexico. This widespread occurrence speaks to its robustness and ability to colonize various soils and terrains.

The grass earns its common name, Bottlebrush Squirreltail, from its distinctive seed head, which features bristly awns resembling a bottlebrush. These awns can vary in length and density but consistently contribute to the plant’s unique appearance and aid in seed dispersal by hitching rides on passing animals or being carried by the wind.

As a native species, Bottlebrush Squirreltail plays a vital role in its ecosystems. It is often one of the first plants to re-establish itself in disturbed areas, making it invaluable for soil stabilization and recovery after events like wildfires. Additionally, its growth provides a habitat and food source for local wildlife, contributing to the biodiversity and health of its native regions.

In summary, Elymus elymoides is not just a hardy genus of grass but a crucial player in maintaining the balance and vitality of various North American ecosystems. Its adaptability and resilience highlight the plant’s importance in ecological restoration and conservation efforts across its range.

Common Names

Eng: bottlebrush squirreltail, squirreltail, long-bristled wildrye, common squirreltail, squirreltail grass, western bottlebrush grass
Fra: élyme queue-d’écureuil
En: Bottlebrush squirreltail, Squirreltail, Western Bottle-Brush Grass, Long-bristled wildrye, Common squirreltail, Squirreltail grass, Western bottlebrush grass
Fr: Élyme queue-d’écureuil
Nv: Zééʼiilwoʼii ntsaaígíí

Synonyms

• Elymus sitanion (Schult.)
• Hordeum elymoides ((Raf.) Schenck)
• Sitanion elymoides (Raf.)

Distribution

• Alberta (native)
• Arizona (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Texas (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• District of Columbia (introduced)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Jun 1, 2019 by Alexander Don Gérémy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 9, 2019 by Bente Hauss (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken May 13, 2022 by javad rahimian (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Sep 7, 2021 by Roxanne Cariadi-Kimbler (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 13, 2019 by Céline Liothaud (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Aug 4, 2013 by EOL − Terry (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 4, 2013 by EOL − Terry (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − This image is not copyrighted and may be freely used for any purpose. Please credit the artist, original publication if applicable, and the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database. The following format is suggested and will be appreciated: Cassondra Skinner @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database If you cite (public)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5290296)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:90240-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Elymus elymoides (Raf.) Swezey)

Specifications

Growth form: Bunch

Growth habit: Graminoid

Growth rate: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 8.4

Ph minimum: 6.0