Purple Needlegrass (Stipa pulchra)

Purple Needlegrasss is California's most widespread native grass. It was named California's State Grass in 2004. Purple needlegrass gets its name from the color of its young seeds. It is a perennial bunchgrass that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has a deep root system, which makes it drought adapted and a good plant choice for erosion control. Purple needlegrass is easy to grow and tolerant of most soil types, including poor and disturbed soils. Plant in full or part sun as part of a low-water meadow garden. This grass produces a large amount of seeds, which attract birds and other wildlife. It has long awns, and pet owners should be aware that they are prickly. It can be cut back when it turns brown at the end of summer. From Calscape.

Growers: Larner Seeds

Other Names Used: 

Family: Poaceae

Life Cycle: Perennial

Plant Type: Grass

Sun Exposure: Full

Bloom Period: Spring (March to May)

Bloom Color(s): Purple, Red, Green

Plant Height: 3 feet tall

Plant Width: 3 feet wide

California Regions:

• San Francisco Bay Area
• North Coast
• Central Valley
• Sierra Foothills
• Central California Coast
• Southern Coast
• Southern California Inland

Ecological Benefits:

• Drought Tolerant
• Attracts pollinators, birds, wildlife

Ecological Functions:

• Grows in Containers
• Groundcover
• Lawn alternative

Habitat Type:

• Chaparral
• Coastal Grassland
• Valley Grassland
• Northern Coastal Scrub
• Coastal Sage Scrub
• Oak Woodland 
• Mixed Evergreen Forest

Human Uses/Cautions:  Basketry

Skill Level: Beginner

Seed Pretreatment: None