Indian Ricegrass
(Oryzopsis hymenoides)

Ricegrass grows in clumps, usually about 18 to 24 inches tall. It is a perennial plant, and may live for several years. During the hot dry summer months it becomes dormant, but sends up new green shoots from the same base each spring when moisture becomes available.
The seeds were an important part of the diet of many native American tribes who lived in this area in the past. They are high in protein.