Leymus condensatus ‘Canyon Prince’

(Canyon Prince Wild Rye)

By April 12, 2024
Delicate blue-green, grass-like foliage from a Leymus condensatus 'Canyon Prince', Canyon Prince Wild Rye, bush

About Leymus condensatus ‘Canyon Prince’ (Canyon Prince Wild Rye)

This delicate, evergreen grass is known as Leymus condensatus ‘Canyon Prince’. Commonly known as Canyon Prince Wild Rye, this variety reaches an average mature size of 2-5′ by 2-5′ feet with flower stalks that reach 1-2′ out above its foliage. The grass first emerges bright green in color then quickly turns a soft blue-green color with maturity. Its flowers bloom during the summer season in wheat colored clusters grouped at the top of its tall stalks. While this variety is known to be drought tolerant, it grows larger and looks best with regular irrigation. Tolerant to coastal conditions as well as desert conditions, this variety is also cold hardy to temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit. It can quickly take over its surrounding area by spreading its short rhizomes filling in bare areas, if desired.

This genus is now being named Elymus condensatus ‘Canyon Prince’ although Leymus condensatus ‘Canyon Prince’ is still used widely.

Care And Planting Instructions

Plant Canyon Prince Wild Rye using well draining soil in an area that receives full sun. Water regularly after planting to help it establish quickly, then reduce frequency as over irrigating can cause its foliage to wilt. To contain growth, cut back its rhizomes as needed or once a year before new growth begins in the spring.

Landscape Design Ideas

This grass variety can be used to fill out a sunny hillside or slope with minimal effort. It also can be planted in containers or alongside perennials in a planter bed.


Botanical Name: Leymus condensatus 'Canyon Prince'

Common Name: Canyon Prince Wild Rye

Average Landscape Size: 2-5' x 2-5'

Plant Type: Evergreen

Bloom Color: Wheat

Foliage Color: Blue-green

Forms: Grass Shrub

Sizes: 5 Gallon

Special Features: Drought Tolerant, Good For Mass Plantings, Ornamental Plant, Tolerates Light Frost,