Beargrass, Sacahuista, Sawgrass
Nolina microcarpa

Family: Asparagaceae

What it is like

A herb or small shrub with spiky leaves from the top. It grows 1.5 m high and spreads 1.2 m wide. The leaves arch over and are grass like. They have fine teeth along the edge. The leaves form dense tufts. The flower panicle can be 2 m tall. The flowers are pale cream and small.

There are 24 Nolina species.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It suits a warm dry climate. It suits hardiness zones 6-10.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Mexico, North America, USA

How it is used for food

Caution: Some Nolina species are poisonous. The stalks are roasted, boiled or eaten raw. They can also be dried and stored. The seeds are made into a meal and used to make bread. The fruit are eaten fresh and preserved.

Edible parts

Stalks

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Possibly now Beaucarnea