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Submit a photoPorcupine Grass
Hesperostipa spartea
A tall needle-grass relative (50–100 cm) of Alberta's tallgrass parkland and moister prairie than Needle-and-thread. Similar dramatic long twisted awns but on a taller, coarser plant. Seeds self-drill into soil via humidity-responsive awn twisting — a remarkable ecological adaptation.
Quick Facts
Distribution
Parkland, moister prairie, Zone 2
Light
Full sun
Bloom Time
June–July
Soil
Adaptable; tolerates clay
Water
Low to moderate
Use Caution— Sharp awns can work into pet fur and skin
Growing & Cultivation
Propagation
Direct-sow fresh seed in fall.
