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Purple Needlegrass

Stipa pulchra

grass View on Calscape

Care

Sun

full sun

Water

very low

Soil

adaptable; tolerates clay, serpentine, and poor soils

Size

1–2ft tall , 1–2ft wide

Bloom

Mar-May · purple-tinged

Foliage

Semi-Deciduous

Deer

Resistant

Container

Friendly

Native Range

Throughout California in grasslands below 3000 ft

Airy flowering stems with purple-tinged awned seeds

State grass of California; long-lived perennial bunchgrass; restoration staple

Care Guide

Planting

Plant Purple Needlegrass in full sun or part sun in fall or winter - it's the best time to establish roots before the dry season. This native grass tolerates virtually every soil type, including poor, clay, and serpentine soils, so soil prep is minimal; just make sure your spot has adequate drainage. Space plants according to your design, keeping in mind they'll grow into a 1–2 foot tall bunchgrass that works beautifully as a lawn alternative or in a low-water meadow garden.

After Planting

Water weekly for the first summer to establish a deep root system, then reduce to once monthly once established - after that, you're essentially done watering. In late summer when the grass turns brown, cut it back to tidy up the plant. Don't overwater or worry about picky soil conditions; the biggest mistake is treating this drought-adapted native like a thirsty ornamental. Year 1 focuses on root establishment; by year 2, your Purple Needlegrass will be nearly self-sufficient and will produce abundant seeds that feed birds and wildlife.

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