How to Grow and Care for Beargrasses

Sacahuista, or Nolina microcarpa is a member of the asparagus family. Native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, this large plant is often used for landscaping. In its natural environment, it is food for deer, but has been found to be toxic to sheep and goats.

Texas sacahuista (Nolina texana) is an evergreen perennial native to New Mexico and central Texas. Texas sacahuista leaves have been used in basket weaving. This species is often planted as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, landscaped slopes, and containers.

Adapted to a very arid, desert climate, bigelow's nolina is an iconic plant in gardens of the Southwestern USA. This catlike plant might look like grass, but it actually belongs to an entirely unrelated family, which becomes pretty evident when it releases its tall flower stalk from the center of the leaf rosette. Nolina bigelovii is categorized as a protected species in Arizona.

Dehesa beargrass is a striking perennial known for its dense rosette of narrow, arching leaves that impart a textured, grass-like appearance. Adapted to arid habitats, its tough foliage conserves water, a testament to its resilience in harsh conditions. This sculptural plant forms a remarkable clump, often serving as a focal point in xeriscaped gardens and native arid landscapes.

Nolina parviflora is characterized by its slender, grass-like leaves that form dense tufts, providing a fountain-like appearance. This hardy desert dweller thrives under full sun, adapting to arid conditions with its drought-tolerant foliage. Small, inconspicuous flowers may appear, yet it's the plant's sculptural form that truly captivates, offering both resilience and elegance in sparse landscapes.