Xerophyllum (plant)

Xerophyllum is a genus of perennial plants from the family Melanthiaceae. The genus is native to North America.

There are two species:

• Xerophyllum asphodeloides <small>(Pursh) Nutt.</small> - southern Appalachians from Alabama to Maryland; also Delaware + New Jersey
• Xerophyllum tenax <small>(Pursh) Nutt.</small> - Alberta, British Columbia, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Washington, Oregon, N + W California

Some species formerly placed in this genus have been transferred to others (within the tribe Melanthieae):

• Xerophyllum gramineum = Stenanthium gramineum <small>(Ker Gawl.) Morong</small>
• Xerophyllum sabadilla = Schoenocaulon officinale <small>(Schltdl. & Cham.) A.Gray</small>

The elongated leaves of X. tenax, commonly known as bear grass, are used for basket weaving by the Native Americans. Xerophyllum asphodeloides, also known as turkey's beard, is a popular garden plant, producing spikes of white flowers.

References

External links

• Xerophyllum asphodeloides growing in the wild in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area.