1. Nodding Needlegrass – Nassella cernua
(nah-SELL-uh ker-NEW-uh)
Family: Poaceae (Grass family); some authorities call this species Stipa cernua
Native to: California & Baja CA; dry slopes and disturbed areas in grasslands, Coastal Shrublands,
Coastal Sage Scrub, Chaparral and Oak Woodlands
Cool-season bunch grass
mature height: 1-3 ft
mature width: 1-3 ft
Graceful perennial bunchgrasses with arching leaves and flower stalks. Stalks arch over leaves. Seeds
and stems are light purple. Graceful and showy plants.
Dormant in late summer/fall.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms/fruits: insignificant blooms in mid-spring (Apr.-May).
Seeds have long, attractive bristles
(“needles”). Very showy, particularly when massed.
Uses in the garden: as accent plants; in mid-beds or as borders; for erosion control on slopes and
banks; for dry gardens. Most showy when planted in masses.
Excellent for native prairies.
Sensible substitute for: non-native ornamental bunching grasses.
Attracts: birds, small mammals (nest; shelter; seeds); larger mammals (food);
Skipper butterflies
(larval food).
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
Prefer sandy, but very tolerant; takes moderately alkali soils
Drought resistant; best with no or little summer water (Zone 1 to 2)
Low requirement
Deep, well-drained soils for best performance; does not tolerate salty soils
Management: Keep area weeded until established. Can shear to 4-6 inches in fall (as needed) or
gently rake to remove dead leaves. Reseeds slowly on bare ground.
Will hybridize with other Nassella
Propagation: from seed: collect dry seeds spring/summer. Plant in soil or pots in summer/fall.
By divisions: in winter (Dec-Mar); fairly easy.
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers) : 5, 8, 10, 13, 14, 16, 19, 20, 24, 28
1/10/14
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