The winter rains along coastal California mark the beginning of a new growing season for these grasses. Bunches of the native perennial Stipa pulchra (Purple Needle Grass) stand out in the mix of multiple species of European annual grasses. Generally, perennial grasses (native and non-native) tend to fair better the closer they are to the ocean and it’s moist, moderating influence, while annual grasses have an advantage in drier areas. With their root systems already established, perennial grasses are able to green-up earlier and grow longer into the dry season.
