[2] Subspecies include: The species is native to most of North America west of the Mississippi River and occurs in a number of ecosystems, from the alpine zone to desert sage scrub to valley grassland.

Evolving 55 million years ago, members of Poaceae produce wheat, rice, and barley cereal grains.

Elymus elymoides is a specific type of wild rye that experiences competitive forces when introduced to invasive species, such as cheat grass (Bromus tectorum).

[3] B. tectorum affects E. multisetus similarly, indicating that the trait causing decreased fitness is shared among the entire genus Elymus.

However, although it is successful as a monoculture food source, it results in a reduction of carbon transfer and decreased soil health when grown alone.