About Nassella pulchra (Hitchc.) Barkworth
Nassella pulchra (Hitchc.) Barkworth is a perennial bunch grass that grows in tufts of erect, unbranched stems reaching up to 1 metre (3.3 ft) in height. It has an extensive root system that can extend 20 feet (6.1 m) deep into the soil, which gives the grass improved drought tolerance. Its open, nodding inflorescence can grow up to 60 centimeters long, with many branches that bear spikelets. The plant produces large amounts of seed: dense stands can yield up to 227 pounds of seed per acre. Its pointed fruit is tinged purple when young, and carries an awn up to 10 centimeters long that is twisted and bent twice. The shape of the seed allows it to bury itself naturally. In its ecological role, Nassella pulchra supports native oaks, as well as caterpillars of the common branded skipper and Uncas skipper butterflies. For human use, this grass is the preferred material that California Indian basket weavers use to teach the art of basket weaving.
