Formerly Distichlis stricta. Warm season, strongly rhizomatous, sod-forming monoecious perennial. Found on wet sites but is also common in the flats and basins of the arid West up to elevations of 6,000 ft., where it is one of the most drought tolerant grasses. Also survives coastal areas periodically flooded by sea water; intolerant of prolonged inundation. Moderately palatable but remains green when other grasses are dry during drought. Useful for revegetating unusually alkaline and saline soils.