Eriocoma nelsonii, commonly known as Columbia needlegrass, subalpine needlegrass, and western needlegrass, is a perennial grass that is native to a range of habitats in western North America, including the Yukon and British Columbia, down to California and Texas. It typically grows in leafy clumps reaching up to 69 inches tall and features a narrow panicle inflorescence. Eriocoma nelsonii is particularly adapted to dry open woodlands, grasslands, and shrubsteppe environments, where it often becomes a dominant species. In forest ecosystems of Arizona and New Mexico, it contributes to the understory diversity.

This grass is valued for its resilience to heavy grazing and is often one of the last species to succumb to overgrazing, making it an important forage plant in natural rangelands. Its ability to thrive in a variety of soil types, from well-drained sandy soils to heavier clay loams, and its drought tolerance make it a suitable choice for restoration projects and erosion control. Eriocoma nelsonii prefers full sun to partial shade and requires minimal water once established, making it a low-maintenance option for xeriscaping. While it does not have notable issues with diseases or pests, its aggressive self-seeding can be a concern in garden settings where uncontrolled spread is undesirable.CC BY-SA 4.0