Bear Grass

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Bear Grass is a common name given to a couple of different species of long thin grass found growing clumps.

The bear grass flower in the picture is one of two species in the genus Xerophyllum, that grows and blooms in mountain forest areas of the United States.

White, six petal flowers tell the tale of membership in the lily family, and the flowers tend to stand out against the green grass background. When blooming a couple of feet above the ground in open fields and meadows, the flowers can dominate a summer's day view. The dense undercover associated with forest floors promotes more limited bear grass growth.

Bear grass functionality extends beyond the look of the flowers. Native Americans used the grass for basket weaving. Florists use it as a green background to compliment various floral arrangements.

© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels.