Nodding Needlegrass (Nassella cernua)

Nodding Needlegrass

Nodding Needlegrass (Nassella cernua) is a kind of bunchgrass native to western North America. It’s listed as a vulnerable species because introduced grasses have encroached on its natural habitat, pushing nodding Needlegrass out. It has minimal water requirements and needs full sun to part sun.

Scientific classification

Species

Nodding Needlegrass (Nassella cernua)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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61 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

4 mm to 9 mm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green, Brown

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Nodding Needlegrass

Attributes of Nodding Needlegrass

Growth Rate

During the Spring, nodding Needlegrass exhibits a Rapid growth rate resulting in significant height increase. This quick growth also leads to abundant leaf production, ensuring optimal photosynthesis. Although growth slows in other seasons, Spring's rapid expansion contributes to nodding Needlegrass's resilient nature and aesthetic appeal.

Distribution of Nodding Needlegrass

Distribution Map

Nodding Needlegrass is native to parts of North America and presently cultivated in other regions for various purposes. This grass species thrives in its natural habitat, adapting to a range of environmental conditions, but through cultivation, it has expanded beyond its native locale, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in diverse geographical areas.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Grassy foothills and valleys

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Nodding Needlegrass

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adapted to dry grasslands, nodding Needlegrass exhibits exceptional drought tolerance, needing only weekly watering to maintain health. It thrives outdoors, utilizing natural rainfall, and may enter dormancy during extended dry periods to conserve water.

Fertilize: For nodding Needlegrass, enrich soil annually with 1-2 inches of mulch or compost in spring to boost growth. This method offers gradual nutrient release, reducing burn risk. Adjust application during sluggish growth or drought, but avoid over-fertilization to protect nodding Needlegrass's native ecosystem.

Pruning: Nodding Needlegrass is a clumping grass with nodding flower spikes. Prune in early spring by cutting back old stems to promote new growth, using clean shears to prevent disease. This practice enhances aeration, prevents overcrowding, and supports robust flowering for a healthier plant.

Propagation: The resilient nodding Needlegrass is best propagated through tuft division. Gardeners should carefully separate the parent clump, ensuring each section has enough root mass. Replant promptly in well-drained soil to promote healthy growth, utilizing the plant's natural clumping ability for successful establishment.

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Images of Nodding Needlegrass

Attributes of Nodding Needlegrass

Distribution of Nodding Needlegrass

Care Guide for Nodding Needlegrass

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