Leymus angustus, commonly known as Altai Wildrye, is a rhizomatous perennial grass native to temperate regions of Asia, particularly found in meadows, steppes, and along riverbanks. It is also cultivated in Canada for use as pasture grass. This species typically grows up to 4 feet tall and is characterized by its light green to blue, waxy leaves that can reach up to 8 inches in length. The inflorescence is a narrow, dense spike, which can be up to 10 inches long but is not notably wide. Altai Wildrye does not produce showy flowers, as it is valued primarily for its foliage and utility as forage.

Altai Wildrye is appreciated for its hardiness and ability to thrive in a range of soil types, from sandy to clay, provided they are well-drained. It is drought-tolerant once established and can grow in both full sun and partial shade. In cultivation, it is often used for erosion control, as a forage crop, and in naturalized areas where its extensive root system helps stabilize the soil. While it is not typically grown for ornamental purposes, its bluish-green foliage can add a unique texture to a garden setting. However, gardeners should be cautious as Leymus angustus can become invasive outside its native range, spreading aggressively and outcompeting native vegetation.CC BY-SA 4.0