Leymus cinereus, commonly referred to as basin wildrye, stands as a stalwart presence in the landscapes of the Great Plains and Intermountain regions of the western United States. This impressive perennial bunchgrass commands attention with its stature, characterized by large, coarse, robust clumps that can expand to reach diameters of up to 3 feet and towering heights of 3 to 6 feet (and sometimes up to 10 feet under optimal conditions). Rising majestically from its crown, the growing points of basin wildrye stand proud at 10 to 12 inches above ground level, a testament to its vigor and resilience. A true survivor of diverse environments, basin wildrye thrives in a range of habitats, from moist to dry sites including wet meadows, valley bottoms, flood plains, and hillsides. Its adaptability extends to climate as well, exhibiting exceptional winter hardiness and a broad climatic tolerance. While it flourishes in regions with average annual precipitation ranging from 8 inches to over 20 inches, it demonstrates remarkable resilience even in less hospitable conditions. Underpinning its endurance is an extensive, deep, coarse fibrous root system, anchoring it firmly in the soil and facilitating its long-term persistence. As a long-lived cool-season native, basin wildrye plays a crucial ecological role in stabilizing soils, conserving moisture, and providing habitat and forage for wildlife. In the vast and varied landscapes it inhabits, Leymus cinereus stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability, embodying the spirit of the western wilds while contributing to the ecological richness of its native habitats.

Brassica carinata, also known as African cabbage or Ethiopian mustard, is a resilient member of the Brassicaceae family, recognized for its versatility and unique characteristics. With a hard, erect central stem that remains upright even in winter, it displays remarkable resilience in adverse weather conditions. This attribute not only aids in its survival but also makes it adept at trapping snow during the winter months, contributing to moisture retention in the soil. Beyond its agronomic benefits, African cabbage offers additional advantages in agricultural practices. It demonstrates efficacy in controlling several parasitic nematodes, making it a valuable tool in integrated pest management strategies. However, despite its numerous strengths, it is worth noting that African cabbage is considered less palatable for livestock forage compared to other brassicas. Nevertheless, its nutritional value and adaptability make it a valuable asset in sustainable farming systems, offering both food security and soil health benefits.

Scientific Name: Bromus hordeaceus

Blando brome is a cool season annual bunchgrass native to Europe. It is widely distributed throughout the ranges of California, including the Sierra foothills, and range areas bordering the Sacramento-San Joaquin Valley and the high mountain chaparral ranges of southern California. Blando brome growth starts in the fall and matures by April or May of the following year. This grass has excellent reseeding abilities, along with a dense and fibrous root system that aids in reducing soil erosion. It is adaptable to a wide range of soils and climates, is low-growing, and matures early. Blando brome is often used in ranges, pastures, and as a cover crop for vineyards and orchards.

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Description: Narrowleaf Milkweed, or Asclepias fascicularis, is a perennial herb native to California and Mexico. Growing with a range of white, pink, and lavender flowers, this wildflower is an essential host plant for butterflies, especially the Monarch butterfly.

Narrowleaf Milkweed (Asclepias fascicularis) Quick Facts

• Native to the United States
• Perennial plant with narrow, lance-shaped leaves
• Clusters of vibrant pink or purple flowers bloom from late spring season to summer
• Great for growing zones 6-10
• Important for supporting pollinators, especially monarch butterflies
• Emits a delightful fragrance
• Ideal plant for butterfly gardens
• Thrives in full sun and well-drained, moderately fertile soil
• Plant seeds at a depth of 1/8 to 1/4 inch
• Water seeds regularly, but avoid overwatering
• Apply organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Trim dead or damaged leaves and stems for healthy growth
• Generally does not require heavy fertilization
• Does great in dry climates or in a warm greenhouse
• Drought tolerant

What is Narrowleaf Milkweed?

Narrowleaf milkweed, scientifically known as Asclepias fascicularis, is a perennial herb with distinctive long pointed leaves. It is native from Southeast Washington and adjacent Idaho through California, Oregon, into Baja California, and west into Nevada. As a member of the milkweed species, narrowleaf milkweed plays a crucial role in supporting pollinators, particularly monarch butterflies.

Also called Mexican whorled milkweed, this plant serves as a host for monarch caterpillars, providing them with a vital food source and a place to lay their eggs. Like other milkweed species, it is a larval host plant to these pollinators.

Narrowleaf milkweed’s flowering season is the late spring or early summer and will last through fall. It is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soils. Narrowleaf milkweed plants can grow up to 48 inches tall. Additionally, narrowleaf milkweed emits a delightful fragrance that adds to its overall appeal.

Why Grow Narrowleaf Milkweed?

There are numerous reasons why you should consider growing narrowleaf milkweed plants in your yard or garden. First and foremost, the stunning Mexican whorled milkweed plant adds beauty and fragrance to any outdoor space.

Additionally, narrow-leaf milkweed is crucial for supporting pollinators, particularly monarch caterpillars and butterflies. By growing milkweed plants, you provide a valuable food source and habitat for these beloved butterflies, allowing you to create your own personal butterfly garden and help pollinate plants in the area.

Moreover, narrowleaf milkweed is native to the United States, making native milkweeds an excellent choice for those who want to promote and preserve native plant species. Growing Mexican whorled milkweed is a rewarding and beneficial experience for you and the environment.

Planting and Maintenance Tips for a Thriving Garden

Once your narrow-leaf milkweed seeds are ready, it’s time to start planting! Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil. Plant the seeds at a depth of 1/8 to 1/4 inch and water regularly to keep the soil moist.

Be careful not to overwater the seeds, as Asclepias fascicularis prefers moderately fertile soil. Applying organic mulch can help the seeds retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and treat them if necessary.

Remember to trim any dead or damaged leaves and stems from your milkweed to encourage healthy growth. With these tips, your Mexican whorled milkweed garden will thrive!

The Role of Narrowleaf Milkweed Plants in the Ecosystem

Asclepias fascicularis plants play a vital role in the ecosystem, particularly when it comes to supporting beneficial insects, flowers, and other plants in North America. As a host to monarch butterflies and caterpillars, milkweed plants provide essential food and shelter.

The nectar-rich flowers attract a wide range of pollinators, including bees, contributing to your lawn’s overall health and biodiversity.

Additionally, milkweed plants can serve as companion plants, helping to deter pests. Incorporating milkweeds into your landscape creates a thriving environment that benefits plants and insects alike.

This native cool-season perennial is found throughout higher elevations of the West and has a dense, bunchy growth habit. Arizona fescue can grow up to three feet tall. Its extensive root system makes it valuable for erosion control, while its finely textured leaf blades provide ornamental interest. It is very drought tolerant and able to handle full sunlight or partial shade. It also provides good to excellent forage for livestock. Can be grown without irrigation in areas receiving at least 10 inches of annual precipitation.

Scientific Name: Festuca arizonica

A close relative of Canby bluegrass, this cool-season perennial bunchgrass is native to the Intermountain West region. It produces short tufts and rarely grows over one foot tall. It is highly valued for its reclamation use and is able to compete against cheatgrass in wildfire damaged areas. Sandberg bluegrass is drought resistant and tolerant of a wide variety of soil conditions. It also provides good forage in the spring. It can be grown without irrigation in areas with at least 8 inches of annual precipitation.

Scientific Name: Poa secunda ssp. Sandbergii

Scientific Name: Panicum virgatum

Switchgrass is a warm-season perennial bunchgrass native to much of the United States. It’s one of the dominant species of the tallgrass prairie, and can grow up to six feet tall. Valuable as livestock forage, wildlife habitat, erosion control and biofuel source. Performs well on a wide range of soils. While switchgrass produces excellent forage and hay for most livestock, it should not be used for horses as it may have a phototoxic reaction. It can be grown without irrigation in areas receiving at least 13 inches of annual precipitation.

Forage chicory is a broadleaf perennial forb native to central Europe. It produces succulent leaves that offer palatable and nutritious forage for livestock with digestibility and mineral content greater than alfalfa. It’s especially beneficial for sheep and goats where it helps to control internal parasites. Prefers fertile, well-drained soils and grows up to six feet if left ungrazed. Forage chicory is an excellent summer forage producer, but needs a 30 day rest period between grazings for best results. Partners well with cool-season grasses and legumes.

Scientific Name: Cichorium intybus