Purple Three-Awn

Aristida purpurea

Aristida purpurea, also known as purple three-awn, is a native perennial bunch grass that can add both aesthetic and ecological value to an Arizona pollinator garden. This grass produces airy, purple inflorescences that are attractive to native bees, such as bumblebees and sweat bees.

By incorporating Aristida purpurea into a pollinator garden, gardeners can not only enhance its visual appeal but also support the populations of important pollinators in their area.

Flowers: Late spring to summer
Status: Native
Origin: Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Mexico
Family: Poaceae
Size: 1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide
Sun: Full
Watering: Low to moderate water needs once established, can tolerate drought
Growth Rate: Moderate
Soil: Well-draining soils, can tolerate sandy or gravelly soils
Temperature: Can tolerate extreme heat, not frost tolerant
Pruning:
Disease and Pests:
Uses: Attracts beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, provides cover for small mammals. Larval host plant for skipper and satyr butterflies. Used by birds and native bees as nesting material.
Notes: 

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