Cool season, perennial, tufted grass. Leaf blade rolled in bud, narrow, margins rough, tapering. Ligule membranous, short, less than 0.5 mm. Sheath not flattened, slender, distinct purplish-brown nodes and purplish base. Inflorescence a nodding spike; seed head rough to touch.

Australia

A forage plant on fertile soils, little use as turf.

Source: Spencer, R.; Aldous, D.; Stajsic, V.; McGeary, D (2005). Poaceae. In: Spencer, R.. Horticultural Flora of South-eastern Australia. Volume 5. Flowering plants. Monocotyledons. The identification of garden and cultivated plants. University of New South Wales Press. (as Elymus scaber)