NOLINA MICROCARPA

Botanical Name: Nolina microcarpa
Common Names: Beargrass, Sacahuista
Mature Size: 3–6 feet (1–1.8 meters) in height, 3–5 feet (1–1.5 meters) in spread
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates rocky, sandy, and nutrient-poor conditions
Water Needs: Low; highly drought-tolerant once established
Foliage: Narrow, arching, grass-like green leaves with finely serrated edges, forming a dense, fountain-like clump
Flowers: Tall flower stalk (up to 10 feet / 3 meters) with small creamy-white blooms, appearing seasonally on mature plants
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

Uses:
Ornamental Plant: Nolina microcarpa is appreciated for its graceful, fountain-shaped form and tough, grass-like foliage, making it a natural fit for xeriscapes, desert gardens, and native landscapes.

Xeriscaping: Well-suited for arid environments, it thrives with minimal water and maintenance, providing visual softness and structure in dry-climate designs.

Erosion Control: Its fibrous root system helps stabilize slopes and control erosion in rugged terrain.

Benefits:
Drought Resistance: Extremely well-adapted to hot, dry climates and requires little irrigation once established.
Low Maintenance: Hardy and pest-resistant, needing minimal care beyond occasional cleanup of dried leaves.
Ecological Value: Its blooms attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting native biodiversity.
Durability and Structure: Offers long-lasting structure and textural contrast in desert and Mediterranean gardens.

Nolina microcarpa is a durable and attractive plant native to the arid Southwest, known for its adaptability, graceful foliage, and environmental benefits. With its ability to thrive in poor soils and dry conditions, it’s an ideal choice for sustainable landscaping with natural elegance.