Stipa pulchra (syn. Nassella pulchra) - Purple Needlegrass

Cool season perennial bunchgrass to 3 ft tall by 2 ft wide. Purple seed heads turn golden in summer; lovely in mass plantings. Official state grass of California! Good oak tree companion. Traditionally used for basket weaving. Provides nesting material for song birds. Full to part sun. Drought tolerant thanks to its deep root system, also appreciates supplemental water. Tolerates clay and alkaline soils. Hardy to 5º F.