California Canarygrass

Phalaris californica

California Canarygrass

Robert Steers/NPS

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Poaceae
Genus:
Phalaris
Species:
Phalaris californica

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Graminoid
Height:
4-6 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
apr, may, jun
Bloom Colors:
Green, Purple, Brown

Native Range

United States: California, Oregon

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Woodland Skipper (Ochlodes sylvanoides)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
well-drained, sandy to loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to coastal and inland areas of California