Pili Grass

A clumping warm-season bunchgrass, pili is indigenous in Hawaiʻi and grows across tropical and warm-temperate regions. Its narrow leaves and contorted seed awns bring a fine-grained texture to sunny, dry sites; upright and prostrate forms can look quite different. ## Landscape Use Use pili as a drought-adapted accent, on a rocky slope, or in grouped plantings for erosion control. Closely spaced clumps can create a tall groundcover or low hedge; allow room for its 2–5 foot spread and keep the seed heads away from narrow paths where their hooked awns may catch on clothing or fur. [Native Plants of Hawaiʻi](https://www.nativeplantsofhawaii.org/h/heteropogon-contortus) describes its growth forms and landscape uses. ## Growing Conditions Full sun and well-drained soil suit this grass. Water through establishment; established plants tolerate dry conditions, though regular irrigation keeps the foliage greener. Pili also tolerates heat, wind, and salt spray in exposed Hawaiian settings. The [University of Hawaiʻi range-grass bulletin](https://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/oc/freepubs/pdf/b-65.pdf) records a 20–40 inch height and the characteristic tangled seed head. [Texas A&M AgriLife](https://rangeplants.tamu.edu/plant/tanglehead/) describes its bunchgrass habit and adaptation to low-rainfall sites. ## Maintenance Remove dead or damaged foliage when needed and leave space for air to move through the clump. Avoid keeping the crown wet; use only enough irrigation to support establishment or the appearance you want.