Xerophyllum tenax aka Bear Grass

Xerophyllum tenax is an evergreen perennial in the Melanthiaceae family. Its common names include beargrass, elk grass, and Indian basket grass. It grows wild from western Canada to northern California. Its range also reaches Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. Wild plants grow on dry, sunny hills and in open woods. They also occur in damp clearings, from sea level to 6,890 feet [2,100 metres].

The plant forms upright clumps that grow from rhizomes. Garden plants reach about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre] tall. Their spread ranges from 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. The RHS also describes plants about 2.5 feet [0.75 metre] tall. Stiff leaves give the clump a grass-like look. Each leaf has a green upper face and blue-green underside. Rough edges line the leaves, which stay green through winter. Plants reach their full size in two to five years.

Small flowers crowd together at the tops of the stems. Each flower has a funnel shape and white to cream tones. Chicago Botanic Garden lists bloom from July to August. The RHS gives the broader season as summer. The flowers suit cutting for use indoors. In gardens, the leaf clumps provide shape in beds and borders. Plants can also stand alone as specimens. The RHS lists gravel gardens and informal gardens among suitable settings.

Grow beargrass in full sun, though Chicago also lists partial shade. Choose soil that stays moist but lets excess water drain. The RHS recommends soil with moderate fertility and a sheltered site. It lists clay, loam, sand, and chalk as suitable soils. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils are all acceptable. Protect the crowns with dry mulch during winter. Hardiness ratings are USDA zones 4–8 and RHS H5. Raise plants from seed, or divide crowns in early spring. No pruning is needed, and pests and diseases seldom cause trouble.

Plants For A Future records baked roots as a food. It gives the plant a low edibility score. It reports no known hazards, rather than proof of safety. The same source records past root uses for wounds and sore eyes. These are historical uses, not treatment advice. Leaves supply fibre for baskets, hats, capes, and clothing. Weavers also use them to add detail to baskets. Some baskets made from the leaves could hold water.