Nassella

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At-A-Glance Information

This genus, commonly called Needle Grass, includes perennial grasses once included in the genus Stipa. The plants in this group have needle-like appendages that lend a feathery look to the plant. These California native grasses are great for revitalizing soil and restoring natural meadows. These grasses will go dormant during times of hot weather and dryness, but will revive in cool weather and rains.​

Nassella Species and Varietals

The best growing zones for Muhlenbergia vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Nassella cernua (Nodding Needle Grass)
This species grows well in zones 7-9, 11, and 14-24 and reach 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Leaves are deep green and awns are purple-flushed, aging to silver. Flowers appear in late winter and early springtime.

Nassella lepida (Foothill Needle Grass)
This species is a classic California native that grows well in zones 7-9, 11, and 14-24. It is similar to Nassella cernua, but with shorter awns.

Nassella pulchra (Purple Needle Grass)
This species grows well in zones 5-9, 11, and 14-24, and is a classic California native similar to the two listed above, but with 4-inch awns.

Caring for Festuca

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Pages 452 - 453, Nassella
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!
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