SafePlants

No images found for this plant ID: 649.

Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "649" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.

Safe for Children?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Dogs?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Cats?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Reptiles?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

desert needlegrass

Scientific Name: Achnatherum speciosum

Family: Poaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Desert Needlegrass (Stipa speciosa)

Desert Needlegrass, also known as Desert Stipa or by its synonym Achnatherum speciosum, is a perennial bunchgrass native to the deserts of the southwestern United States. It's a popular choice for revegetation and landscaping due to its drought hardiness and attractive appearance.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant is known as "needlegrass," which suggests sharp or pointed parts.
  • When the plant goes to seed, it has a "fluffy appearance" due to the long hairs on the seeds which could present a risk if ingested.

Scientific Classification

  • Scientific Name: Stipa speciosa Trin. & Rupr.
  • Synonym: Achnatherum speciosum (Trin. & Rupr.) Barkworth
  • Common Names: Desert Needlegrass, Desert Stipa, Desert Rice Grass, Spear Grass
  • Family: Poaceae (Grass family)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, the southern Coast Ranges, and the southern Sierra Nevada.
  • Found in dry habitats.

Morphology and Growth

  • A perennial bunchgrass.
  • Typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet, though some sources state it can reach 3 feet.
  • Cool-season grass.
  • Forms dense clumps.
  • Blades are typically 1 to 2 feet long.
  • Blooms from April to June with branched, 4 to 6 inch long flower clusters.
  • Seed cluster is similar in shape to that of other Stipa species.
  • When it begins to go to seed, it has a fluffy appearance.

Ecology

  • Used for revegetation and landscaping due to its drought hardiness.
  • Is palatable to all classes of livestock when young.

Quirky Facts

  • Several needlegrass species have been switched between the genera Achnatherum and Stipa in taxonomic classifications, reflecting ongoing research and refinement of plant relationships.

Further Resources

  • USDA PLANTS Database: Provides fact sheets with information on distribution, ecology, and management. (Referenced as: http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=ACSP12)
  • Dave's Garden: A community-driven resource for gardening tips and plant information.
  • CalPhotos: A database of photos taken by researchers and amateurs associated with the University of California, Berkeley.
  • ResearchGate: A professional network for scientists and researchers.