This resilient perennial bunch grass that is renowned for its ability to control erosion and prosper around the canopy of native trees. Despite it going dormant in the summer, this plant is valuable in providing habitat for native wildlife. Birds, particularly songbirds, can be found among this grass. Pollinators like butterflies and bees are also drawn to this plant. Of the three most commonly used perennial CA native bunch grasses, most find the N. lepida the most difficult to establish and successfully use in landscapes.
- Common Name:
- Foothill Needlegrass
- Mature Height:
- 1-3'
- Mature Spread:
- 1-2'
- Exposure:
- Sun/Part Sun
- Growth:
- Summer Dormant
- Flower Color:
- None
- Soil:
- Adaptable but usually found in slow to medium draining clay loam
- Foliage Color:
- Green/Brown
- Flower Time:
- Spring
