Xerophyllum is a genus of perennial plants from the family Melanthiaceae. The genus is native to North America.
There are two species:Search for "Xerophyllum", Biota of North America Program 2013 county distribution maps Xerophyllum asphodeloides (Pursh) Nutt. - southern Appalachians from Alabama to Maryland; also Delaware + New Jersey Xerophyllum tenax (Pursh) Nutt. - Alberta, British Columbia, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Washington, Oregon, N + W California
Some species formerly placed in this genus have been transferred to others (within the tribe Melanthieae): Xerophyllum gramineum = Stenanthium gramineum (Ker Gawl.) Morong Xerophyllum sabadilla = Schoenocaulon officinale (Schltdl. & Cham.) A.Gray
The elongated leaves of X. tenax, commonly known as bear grass, are used for basket weaving by the Native Americans. Xerophyllum asphodeloides, also known as turkey's beard, is a popular garden plant, producing spikes of white flowers.
References
External links Xerophyllum asphodeloides growing in the wild in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area.