Common Name(s): Bear Grass

Synonym(s):

Family: Asparagaceae

Native To: Desert Southwest

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Flowering:

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Natural History and Cultivation Notes:

Ethnobotany: Indigenous people have used this tall grass, pollinated by insects, in several different ways. Many parts of the plants are considered edible; the stalk and seeds can be roasted, and the buds and flowers can be eaten as well. The primary use of this plant however was for weaving textiles. Indigenous cultures harvest the clusters of long, thin, durable leaves in order to make mats, baskets, brooms, and even sandals. In some areas it was also used as a medium for constructing thatched roofs of huts.

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