SafePlants

Purple Needlegrass (Nassella pulchra)

Considerations for Pets

• The seed from Chilean Needle Grass (Nassella neesiana), which shares the common name "needle grass," is described as causing pelt damage and painful wounds.
• The sharp pointed grain and long, threadlike awn of grasses within the Stipa genus, including needlegrasses, may present a physical hazard.

Considerations for Children

• The seed from Chilean Needle Grass (Nassella neesiana), which shares the common name "needle grass," is described as causing painful wounds.
• The sharp pointed grain and long, threadlike awn of grasses within the Stipa genus, including needlegrasses, may present a physical hazard.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Nassella pulchra
• Basionym: Stipa pulchra
• Common Names: Purple Needlegrass, Purple Tussockgrass, California Needlegrass, Nodding Stipa, Nodding Needlegrass

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Poaceae (Grass Family)
• Plant Symbol: NAPU4

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to California.
• Dominant in northern coastal prairie.
• Present in coastal areas from San Francisco Bay north to the Oregon border.
• Habitat: Grassland, Oak Woodland, Chaparral

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Plants can grow up to 2 feet tall.
• Tufted perennial.

Ecological Role

• Purple Needlegrass was selected as the official California state grass in 2004.

Other Needlegrass Species

• The term "needlegrass" can refer to several genera of grasses, including Achnatherum and Aristida (three-awns).

Related Invasive Species

• Chilean Needle Grass (Nassella neesiana) is a Weed of National Significance in Australia and is regarded as an environmental weed. It is also a major problem for dry hill country farmers.
• Texas needle grass is a tussock forming perennial grass, which is highly invasive and can form dense infestations.