©2001-06
Photo by Ken Gilliland
Mellica impertica
Oniongrass or Small-flowered melic
Form:
Grass
Growth habit:
Loose bunch grass
Size:
2' h x 2' w
Deciduous:
Drought deciduous
Flowering Season:
Spring
Growth Rate:
Fast
Flower Color:
Seed heads
Hardiness:
to 32 degrees F
Exposure:
Sun to part sun
Cultural Uses:
Soil Moisture:
Semi-dry
Soil Type:
Sand to clay
CNPS Status:
Not listed
Family:
Poaceae
Distribution:
Central and southern Sierra Nevada, Santa Cruz Mtns, South Coast Ranges, Southwestern CA, western Mojave Desert, Baja CA
Habitat:
Dry rocky hillsides, chaparral, woodlands. Elevation: below 1500 meters.
Wildlife Value:
Grasses and their seeds are browsed by wildlife
Description:
Tall bunch grass with purple panicles. Very attractive.
