Nassella viridula - Green Needle Grass

Green Needle Grass is a hardy, cool-season bunchgrass that thrives in prairies, meadows, and well-drained soils, making it an excellent choice for rural landscapes. Its fine, arching green blades add texture and movement, while feathery seed heads emerge from late spring to early summer, shimmering in the wind. Sparrows and other ground-feeding songbirds eat the seeds, and some butterflies use native grasses like Green Needle Grass as larval host plants in prairie ecosystems.

Highly valued for erosion control and forage, its seeds were also traditionally used as a food source by Indigenous peoples. Though palatable to livestock before seed set, the sharp awns on mature seeds can cause irritation if grazed too late in the season. Deep-rooted and drought-tolerant, Green Needle Grass contributes to soil stabilization and provides ecological benefits in pollinator-friendly and restoration plantings. While not a preferred food source for deer, young shoots may be nibbled occasionally.