Nassella pulchra (Purple Needle Grass)

The state grass of California, Nassella pulchra (Purple Needle Grass) is a densely tufted, upright perennial bunchgrass with smooth to finely hairy, long green leaves. In early to mid-summer, it boasts conspicuously long, twice-bent awns, up to 4 in. long (10 cm), that extend from the tip of each of the flowers. Starting out purple, the nodding seed awns fade to a light wheat color and sway gracefully in the slightest breeze. The plant becomes dormant after seed production, turning golden, but begins growth again with cooler fall weather and rains. Purple Needle Grass is highly valued as an erosion control grass due to its longevity, tolerance to poor soil conditions, and its ability to establish a deep root system on disturbed sites with low soil fertility. It is also a valuable forage species that provides food for deer, elk, and other wildlife. Purple Needle Grass is an excellent native grass for use in low-water landscaping. Fire tolerant, it mixes beautifully with other native grasses, wildflowers, and perennials to create delicate and elegantly mobile combinations.

• Grows up to 24-36 in. tall (60-90 cm) and 18-30 in. wide (45-75 cm). Tends to self-sow under favorable conditions.
• Performs best in full sun to part shade in dry, well-drained soils. It is well adapted to droughty soils, clays, and serpentine soils. It is tolerant of extreme summer heat and drought. Established plants require no summer water.
• A graceful perennial grass for cottage gardens, prairies, and meadows thanks to its ability to self-sow. Excellent as a groundcover.
• Generally pest and disease free.
• Propagate by seed. 
• Native to California.