Elymus riparius
riverbank wild rye
 
Found along riverbanks, this perennial grass thrives in full sun and moist, sandy, or loamy soils. Elymus riparius is a major player in preventing soil erosion due to its dense root system. It offers habitat and nectar to a range of insects, including bees, and its seeds attract birds in fall. This hardy rye grass grows well in wetland or streamside gardens, stabilizing soils while providing for pollinators and seed-eating birds.
 
photo by Arron Gunnar