It grows from a small rhizome, forms a shallow, fine root network, and is a facultative mycotroph, receiving about 25% of its nutrients on average from symbiotic mycorrhizae.

[2] The gene pool of Elymus canadensis can provide information on promoting disease resistance in Hordeum vulgare (barley).

[6] Elymus canadensis has also been shown to contain a novel high molecular weight (HMW) glutenin subunit (GS) allele.

Specifically, research can examine if the different varieties of Epichloe will provide E. canadensis with agronomic qualities such as drought tolerance and field production.

[9] Canada wild rye is sometimes used for stabilizing eroded areas and for vegetating metal-rich soils in reclaimed mines.

In addition, because of its ability to cross-pollinate, new species can emerge through nature or breeding programs, thereby contributing more plants that could potentially lead to novel crops.