Bear Grass (Xerophyllum)

Bear Grass (Xerophyllum)

Common Names: Indian basket grass, soap grass, squaw grass

Genus: Xerophyllum

Species: Tenax

Parts Used: roots and leaves are used in weaving

Bear grass is a fire-resistant species that is the first plant to grow after a fire. Beargrass, and many other native plants, need periodic burns to produce strong new growth. After a fire beargrass sprouts rhizomes which lie under the surface. Light fires of short duration are best. Intense fires which linger in the same place for a long time will kill the rhizomes under the ground, and prevent the beargrass from growing back.