Xerophyllum tenax
Xerophyllum tenaxfam. Bromeliaceae
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Pl. 3622 — Xerophyllum tenax
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IOverview
Overview
Xerophyllum tenax, commonly known as Tarragona or Bear Grass, is a perennial herb native to the western United States and Canada, ranging from Alberta to California and extending into Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in full to partial sun with moist soil that is light (sandy) to medium in texture, thriving within pH levels of 5.5 to 7.2. Known for its edible root parts, Tarragona has been used by indigenous peoples as a food source. One distinctive feature of this plant is its height, reaching up to 1.2 meters; another notable characteristic is its light requirement, making it adaptable to various sunlight conditions while maintaining its hardiness in zones 4-8.
Quick answers
What is Xerophyllum tenax?
Xerophyllum tenax, commonly known as Tarragona or Bear Grass, is a perennial herb native to the western United States and Canada, ranging from Alberta to California and extending into Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Xerophyllum tenax thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.2. It is hardy in zones 4-8 and grows as a perennial, reaching up to 1.2 meters tall. For best results, propagate through root division or seed sowing. Harvest the edible roots for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.2 m tall
Soil pH
5.5–7.2
For first-time growers
How to grow Xerophyllum tenax for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance approach to growing Skip.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plot of well-draining soil and a container if planting in a pot.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in early spring or late fall when temperatures are cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light, sandy, and has a pH between 5.5 and 7.2. Amend with compost if necessary.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip seedlings from a nursery or start seeds indoors about 8 weeks before planting outdoors.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plant regularly to help it establish, but avoid overwatering. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- 6
Ongoing care
Skip prefers full sun to partial shade and needs regular watering during dry spells. Mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves in early spring to encourage new growth, but avoid cutting back too much.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Xerophyllum tenax is edible and can be prepared in various ways. Typically, it is cooked to enhance its flavor and texture. SKIP
Other uses:Weaving materialFiber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 8 native
Broader regions
native:Alberta, British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
4 related
See also
4 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Bromeliaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Bromeliaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 3622ad82-b5c7-44a1-9f1b-16df2ad1c128
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