Sometimes confused with the yuccas, the several species of “beargrass”
or “basketgrass” have pliant, grasslike leaves, small flowers, and
papery fruits. The plumelike blossom panicles open in May and June. The
plants favor rocky hillsides, and rarely occur on valley floors. Indians
roasted the tender bud stalks for food, and cattle browse the leaves
when other vegetation is lacking. Mexicans, in weaving basketry, use the
entire leaves, which are especially desirable for fashioning basket
handles.
_Nolina microcarpa_ Lily Family
[Illustration: SACAHUISTA]