Silky Wild Rye - Elymus villosus

Features:  A woodland and savanna grass similar to Bottlebrush Grass but with smaller seed heads and height. The common name is from the tiny white hairs covering the stems.  Stalks left through winter provide visual interest and food for birds. The caterpillars of several butterflies and moths, as well as flies and beetles, feed on it.

Light: Part shade to part sun

Soil: Moist or medium

Height: 2-3 feet

Blooms: June to July

See more information and photos at: Illinois Wildflowers 

Related to several other native wild ryes. Here is a comparison.

Photos: