Spider Grass
Aristida ternipes
Gallery
Details & Attributes
| Plant Type(s) | Grass |
| Native to Arizona | Yes! |
| Water Needs | Low |
| Sun | Full sun |
| Has Spines | No |
| Size In relative feet, width by height |
2-4' × 1-3' |
| Flowering Season | July-October |
| Flower Color | Pinkish |
| Minimum Temperature Range | 0-10 °F |
| Leaf Description | Typically growing from right around the base of the plant. |
| Fruit | Seeds with 3 long awns (stiff terminal hairs), sometimes with 2 shorter and one longer, otherwise all 3 equal |
| View on SEINet | View SEINet Entry |
| Range Map | View SEINet Range Map |
| Elevation Range | 2500-5500 ft. |
| Description | A common grass South of I-40 in Arizona where it is found on slopes, often in association with other native grass species such as grama grasses (Bouteloua spp.) and Muhly grass (Muhlenbergia spp.). This species can get quite a bit taller than other grasses, often reaching 3-4 feet with airy, open inflorescences (flowering heads). The wide elevation range of this species makes it a good candidate for gardens in the desert up to those In oak/juniper woodlands. Interplant with other native grasses, for a layered effect. |
