Xerophyllum (plant)

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

There are two species:

  • Xerophyllum asphodeloides (syns Xerophyllum douglasii, Xerophyllum setifolium, nom. superfl.)
  • Xerophyllum tenax

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

  • Xerophyllum gramineum = Stenanthium gramineum
  • Xerophyllum sabadilla = Schoenocaulon officinale

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