bear grass

[ bair gras ]

noun

1. Also called elk grass. a tall, western North American plant, Xerophyllum tenax, of the lily family, having narrow leaves and a dense, broad cluster of tiny white flowers.
2. any of several other plants having linear, grasslike leaves, as those of the genera Nolina and Dasylirion.

Word History and Origins

Origin of bear grass¹

An Americanism dating back to 1740–50

Example Sentences

The Washington Post published a front-page photo of her in a Karuk dress of dried bear grass, a woven basket cap and a white leather sash adorned with Pileated woodpecker scalps.

From Seattle Times

It spurred hazelnut stems and bear grass used for intricate baskets and ceremonial regalia.

From Seattle Times

Kuhnhausen disappeared June 6 and her remains were discovered in a remote area of Larch Mountain on Dec. 7 by someone gathering bear grass.

From Washington Times

On Dec. 7, someone found a human skull in the woods around Larch Mountain while they were picking bear grass.

From Washington Times

Light, frequent burning of the forest understory maintains oak tree health, and the acorns and huckleberries for food, hazel and bear grass for weaving, and pepperwood and wormwood for medicine.

From The Guardian