Sacahuista
(Nolina microcarpa)
Sacahuista (Nolina microcarpa)
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© CK Kelly
CC BY 4.0
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© CK Kelly
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CC BY 4.0
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Photo by: © CK Kelly | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Uploader: ck2az | Publisher: iNaturalist |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Nolina microcarpa, commonly known as Sacahuista or Beargrass, is an evergreen subshrub or shrub native to arid regions, including desert scrub, chaparral, and grasslands, as well as oak woodlands and pinyon-juniper communities in the Southwestern USA and Mexico. It is a robust plant that forms dense clumps up to two meters wide. The foliage consists of grasslike leaf blades that are thick, rough, and serrated, creating a distinctive texture in the landscape. Sacahuista blooms with a tall scape reaching 1.5 to 1.8 m (4.9 to 5.9 ft), topped by a panicle of small, creamy white flowers. The species is dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate plants, though some may have perfect flowers. The fruit is a papery, three-sided capsule about half a centimeter long and wide.
Sacahuista is valued for its drought tolerance and architectural form, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used as an accent plant in rock gardens or as a ground cover in arid landscapes. It thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. It adapts to a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While generally disease-free, Sacahuista can occasionally suffer from root rot if overwatered. It is also important to note that the sharp leaf edges can be a hazard if planted along walkways or in areas with high foot traffic.CC BY-SA 4.0
Sacahuista is valued for its drought tolerance and architectural form, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used as an accent plant in rock gardens or as a ground cover in arid landscapes. It thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. It adapts to a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While generally disease-free, Sacahuista can occasionally suffer from root rot if overwatered. It is also important to note that the sharp leaf edges can be a hazard if planted along walkways or in areas with high foot traffic.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrubs
- Height: 6-7 feet
- Width: 4-6 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Native to arid regions, including desert scrub, chaparral, grasslands, oak woodlands, and pinyon-juniper communities
Other Names
Common Names: Bear-Grass , Palmilla Sacahuista , Björnnolina
Scientific Names: Nolina microcarpa , Nolina caudata , Beaucarnea microcarpa
GBIF Accepted Name: Nolina microcarpa S.Watson