Green Needlegrass

Stipa viridula, commonly known as green needlegrass, is a cool-season native perennial bunchgrass renowned for its significance in the Northern Great Plains, extending southward to Arizona. Typically found in bottomlands, flat benches, and overflow areas along streams, green needlegrass serves various ecological purposes. Its adaptability and nutritive value make it a preferred choice for range seeding, critical area establishment, mine land reclamation, wildlife habitat enhancement, and other native vegetation projects. While it is nutritious and palatable, its abundance may decrease under heavy grazing pressure. However, its awns are less problematic for livestock compared to other needle grasses. Green needlegrass is recommended for seeding in regions with 12 to 18 inches of annual precipitation. Despite its high seed dormancy, germinability improves over several years post-harvest. Seedlings develop slowly but exhibit good vigor once established. Proper planting equipment ensures optimal seed depth, uniform seeding rates, and adequate seed-to-soil contact. Management practices involve harvesting for hay in native grass mixtures, particularly in upland areas or flats with loamy to heavy clay soils. The hay is of high quality and readily consumed by livestock. Peak forage production occurs from mid to late August. While not ideal for solid seeding in grazing systems, green needlegrass performs well in pasture mixes. Cattle exhibit a preference for it, especially during early spring growth and favorable fall moisture conditions. It demonstrates excellent recovery post-grazing and maintains fair resilience during winter grazing, although excessive grazing may lead to a decrease in its abundance over time.