The native foothill needlegrass is a fine-bladed, medium-sized, perennial bunchgrass perfectly adapted to our Mediterranean climate. Growing vegetatively during the cool season and flowering in mid to late spring, going dormant with the dry of summer. Tufts of fine-textured blades 8 – 12 inches tall, give rise to slender, graceful flowering stems, 2 ft or more tall with panicles of silky awns which shimmer when back lit. Well suited for the dry garden, open woods, meadows and rocky slopes. Easy to grow, disease and pest resistant, tolerating more shade than other Stipa species. A strong re-seeder and deer resistant. Host plant for a number of butterflies. Deer resistant.
Stipa (Nassella) lepida
foothill needlegrass
Click on a characteristic from the list below to see a list of other plants that share that characteristic.
Plant Types
Size
- Average Height: 2 - 3 ft
- Average Width: 1 - 2 ft
Exposures
Water Requirements
Bloom Times
Habitat Values
Site Conditions
Tolerances
Special Uses
Our monthly inventory was updated on May 1, 2026. To confirm current availability, please call ahead. We do not ship plants.
| Inventory Notes | 4in |
|---|---|
| 47 available$6.25 each |
This list reflects retail prices. Landscape professionals may inquire about wholesale pricing.