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Foothill beargrass facts for kids

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Foothill beargrass
Nolina erumpens fh 0523.46 TX. Im Cottonwood Canyon in Texas.jpg
in Cottonwood Canyon in Texas
Scientific classification
Genus:
Nolina
Species:
erumpens
Synonyms
  • Dasylirion erumpens Torr. in W.H.Emory
  • Beaucarnea erumpens (Torr.) Baker

Nolina erumpens, also known as the foothill beargrass, mesa sacahuista, or sand beargrass, is a cool plant that grows in dry areas. It's part of the Asparagaceae family, which also includes asparagus! You can find this plant naturally in New Mexico, Texas, and nearby parts of northern Mexico.

Nolina Erumpens: The Foothill Beargrass

What Does Foothill Beargrass Look Like?

This plant has long leaves, usually about 2 to 2.6 feet (60-80 cm) long. They are about 0.8 inches (2 cm) wide. The leaves grow in wide bunches and have grooves running along them. Their edges are sharp and have small, saw-like teeth. You might also see thin, thread-like pieces hanging from the edges.

Flowers and Fruit

Nolina erumpens produces flower stalks that look like clubs. These stalks usually don't grow taller than the leaves. They are covered with many tiny, cream-colored flowers. This plant blooms in the late spring and early summer. Its flowers are very popular with insects like ants, wasps, and bees. After the flowers, the plant grows small, thin-walled fruits that look like capsules.

Where Can You See Foothill Beargrass?

It's quite rare to find Nolina erumpens in people's private gardens. However, you might be able to spot it in some special botanical gardens. These gardens often have collections of unique succulent plants, and the foothill beargrass fits right in!

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