Xerophyllum tenax

Xerophyllum tenax is a North American species of plants in the corn lily family. It is known by several common names, including bear grass, soap grass, quip-quip, and Indian basket grass. The name "beargrass" is thought to come from its connection to both the plant's habitat and its relationship with bears. Found in the same forested and meadowed areas where bears are commonly present, beargrass thrives in environments such as the Pacific Northwest, California, and parts of the Rocky Mountains. Bears are known to feed on the softer leaf bases of the plant, which may have influenced its name. In addition to this ecological connection, beargrass is a tough, resilient plant, which could also explain its association with bears, creatures often symbolizing strength and endurance. The plant’s long, fibrous leaves are highly valued by Native Americans, who use them to weave baskets, jewelry, and other items. While it is a common myth that beargrass blooms every seven years, the plant typically blooms at irregular intervals, depending on environmental factors such as moisture and temperature. Beargrass can grow to be a little over 4 feet tall when in a preferred habitat and ideal conditions such as ample sunlight.