California melic
Melica imperfecta
Last reviewed: September 2026
California melic (Melica imperfecta) is a perennial grass native to AZ, CA, NV. It blooms in March, April, and May.
Toxicity unknown
California melic (Melica imperfecta) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AZ, CA, NV
Before you buy
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Browse plants for this ecoregion
A slender clump-forming perennial bunchgrass with narrow blades and open, sparsely flowered seed spikes. Found in dry woodlands and rocky slopes where it adds fine texture without spreading aggressively.
Growing California melic
Grow California melic in part sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 12 to 18 inches wide.
Wildlife value
Seeds provide minor forage for birds; the fine bunchgrass form offers shelter for small insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does California melic need?
- California melic grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does California melic bloom?
- California melic blooms in March, April, and May.
- Where is California melic native?
- California melic (Melica imperfecta) is native to AZ, CA, NV, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
If something looks wrong
Common plant problems, and what to check first
These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.
- It is dying right after planting
- Leaves turning yellow
- Wilting even though I watered it
- Brown crispy leaf tips
- Bugs on the plant
Ready to grow California melic? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.