Aristida flaccida, commonly known as Spreading Needlegrass, is a perennial grass native to Brazil and Uruquay. It exhibits a moderate growth rate and typically reaches a height of 1.5-3 feet (0.46-0.9 meters). This grass is characterized by its fine-textured foliage and green, inconspicuous flowers that bloom in the summer and fall, forming airy panicles that sway with the breeze. While the flowers are not showy, they add a delicate texture to the landscape.

Spreading Needlegrass is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, sandy soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and naturalized areas. It is often used for erosion control, as a ground cover in open, sunny areas, and in restoration projects where its native status and adaptability are beneficial. It requires full sun to maintain its best form and health, and it is well-suited to fast-draining sandy soils with low water requirements once established. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to rust diseases under certain conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0