Stipa cernua Picture of Nassella cernua
Common Name Nodding Needlegrass
Latin Name Nassella cernua or Stipa cernua
Native Habitat Dry, decomposed granite, sand, limestone, clay loam low in organic content, well drained
Soil Dry California slopes to 4,500 feet
Water Once per month in summer
Height X Width Maximum maximum 3 feet X 4 feet, usual 2 feet X 3 feet
Protective Mechanism None
Leaves Yellow-green stems stems
Garden Suitability Thornless, Songbird
Ornamental Value Tufted foliage with elegant flower stems
Nature Value Seeds eaten by birds, grass browsed by wildlife
Native American Uses Basketry, seeds eaten
Links  
    Images and data http://www.calflora.net/bloomingplants/noddingneedlegrass.html
    Images and data http://plants.usda.gov/plantguide/doc/pg_nace.doc
    Data http://www.rbgkew.org.uk/data/grasses-db/www/imp09863.htm
    Nursery, images and data http://www.laspilitas.com/plants/660.htm
    Distribution map http://plants.usda.gov/java/county?state_name=California&statefips=06&symbol=NACE
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