Presented in Association with the Western New Mexico University Department
of Natural Sciences
Nolinaceae (Beargrass Family)
The Nolinaceae or Beargrass Family is represented by two genera in the Gila: Dasilyrion and Nolina. They are
perennials with tall, scape-like inflorescences. They are not grasses at all as the common name for the family would suggest.
The leaves are linear and long, with those of Dasilyrion edged with upward facing teeth. Nolina leaves have microscopically serrulate
edges that can cut skin.