Indian Ricegrass

     Indian Ricegrass is some of the sturdiest grass. Sometimes it can grow eight to twenty-four inches tall in the wild! This plant often likes to grow in cooler temperatures and is often referred to as a "bunchgrass."

     Because Indian Ricegrass is able to reseed and grow after a fire or overgrazing occurs. This is another example of its durability.

     Many grazing animals such as bison, desert bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer, pronghorns, and jack rabbits enjoy eating Indian Ricegrass. For some, it is a staple food in late winter because it begins to regrow earlier than most plants. Its seeds are enjoyed by rodents and some birds as well.


     Something interesting and fun to know about this plant is that it has not always been a staple food for animals: people used it for food as well! Native Americans would use the seeds to grind into flour for bread if their corn crops did not grow. Another fun fact is that Indian Ricegrass was dubbed as Nevada's state grass in 1977.

     Now, when you go walking, you can look for Indian Ricegrass! You will probably recognize it be the seeds at the tips of each blade of grass. Maybe you can try grinding it into flour like the Native Americans did!

Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oryzopsis_hymenoides

http://pioneer.utah.gov/research/utah_symbols/grass.html

http://herbarium.uvu.edu/virtual/viewer.asp?file=11682s1.jpg&title=Achnatherum+hymenoides

http://herbarium.uvu.edu/virtual/details.asp?ID=12136