Wiregrass (Aristida stricta var. beyrichiana): Keystone Longleaf Pine Understory Grass

Overview

Wiregrass is a perennial bunchgrass native to the southeastern US coastal plain. It forms dense, wiry tufts and is the dominant groundcover in longleaf pine savannas. Fire-adapted, flowering prolifically after spring burns. Seeds have three distinctive awns.

Taxonomy & Nomenclature

Synonym: Aristida beyrichiana.

Cultivation & Uses

Full sun; sandy, acidic, well-drained, low-nutrient soil. Essential for ecological restoration of longleaf pine ecosystems. Not typically ornamental. Requires fire or mowing to maintain vigor. Provides critical habitat for gopher tortoise, quail, and many species.