Volga Wild Rye, Mammoth wildrye

Leymus racemosus

Physical Characteristics

Leymus racemosus is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Europe, in Russia, to central Asia and Tibet.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Oil Seed Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Oil Seed - used as a cereal substitute in some parts of Russia, especially in times of drought[183]. The seed is rather small and difficult to extract[K]. Young underground shoots - raw. Sweet and tender[183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known