Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Poaceae

Genus:

Aristida

Species:

Aristida californica

USDA Symbol:

ARCA9

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Graminoid

Height:

60 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Resprouts from basal crown after fire; adapted to frequent low-severity fires in desert grasslands.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

common in desert and arid regions

Propagation & Germination