Foothill Needlegrass

Scientific Name: Stipa lepida

Foothill needlegrass, also known as small-flowered needlegrass, is a perennial bunchgrass native to all parts of California. It’s fast-growing, with yellow blooms in early spring. Foothill needlegrass is typically found on dry slopes in chaparral and grassland habitats at elevations up to 4,000 feet. It can also be found in the coastal sage scrub and coastal prairie. Needle grasses (Stipas) have been a major component of California’s native grasslands. In the garden, this grass is best grown in small patches between chaparral or sage scrub species and mixed with various perennial herbs and annuals.

Host plant: Juba skipper, common ringlet, Nevada skipper, Uncas skipper, and white-lined sphinx

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