Gramineae Elymus sp. Magness et al. 1971 Wild-rye species are well distributed among the native grasses of the Western States.
Most species are perennial bunch growers, but some form sods.
These grasses are coarse and of low palatability for livestock. Because of their vigor and ease of establishment they form a quick cover and are useful in mixtures with slower growing kinds. Wild-rye grasses are susceptible to ergot fungus, which replaces the seed kernel and is highly toxic to livestock.