perennial

Sacahuista Beargrass

Nolina microcarpa

The Story

Plant Bio

Nolina microcarpa, commonly known as Beargrass, is a drought-tolerant, evergreen shrub with graceful, arching leaves and tall flower stalks bearing clusters of small, creamy-white flowers.

Forms a large, dense, trunkless clump of long, narrow, grass-like leaves with sharp, serrated margins. Valued in xeriscapes for its strong architectural form and extreme drought tolerance.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides architectural interest with its upright form and evergreen foliage, ideal for xeriscaping.

Requires minimal watering once established, conserving water and reducing maintenance.

Supports local pollinators by providing habitat and nectar in dry landscapes.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

Southwestern US and northern Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck well-draining soil around roots.
Mist cuttings lightly in early spring.
Tuck seeds into soil after last frost.
Water sparingly during summer drought.
6 weeks for cuttings to establish roots.
Transplant in early spring after danger of frost.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply but infrequently 🌱
Prune dead or damaged leaves annually
Apply cactus or succulent fertilizer in spring

Don't

Overwater in winter ❌
Use heavy clay soil without amendment ❌
Expose to prolonged shade ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Architectural drought-tolerant borderSilver-foliaged accent in xeriscape

Companion Plants

Agave Sedum YuccaLavender Artemisia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sacahuista Beargrass questions

What zones can Sacahuista Beargrass grow in?

Sacahuista Beargrass is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Sacahuista Beargrass deer resistant?

Yes — Sacahuista Beargrass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Sacahuista Beargrass bloom?

Sacahuista Beargrass typically blooms in late spring to early summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Sacahuista Beargrass need full sun?

Sacahuista Beargrass does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Sacahuista Beargrass drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sacahuista Beargrass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.