Russian wildrye (Psathyrostachys juncea, previously known as Elymus junceus) is a cool season perennial bunchgrass introduced from Siberia. It is long-lived and adapted to semiarid climates. It is used extensively for late summer/fall grazing. It has poor seedling vigor and is slow to establish, but is very competitive once in a stand. Russian wildrye (Psathyrostachys juncea) is most easily established and is most productive on loam and clay loam soils. It is very productive in seep areas and tolerates moderate salinity. Extensively used in the western US and Canada.
Russian Wildrye is an excellent restorative species for rangeland, CRP, erosion control. It is an excellent component of dryland pasture mixtures and is well adapted to that use. It maintains its forage quality even when mature. It makes much better summer and fall pasture than crested wheatgrass. It can be grazed late into the fall and winter.
