Nolina atopocarpa is the Florida beargrass — a rare, acaulescent nolina of wet flatwoods and grassy areas in Florida, and a close relative of the federally endangered Nolina brittoniana. It differs from its cousin in having much narrower leaves (1.5–4 mm wide vs 3–12 mm) and strongly asymmetrical capsules. Listed as state-threatened in Florida.
Distribution and natural habitat
Endemic to Florida. Unlike Nolina brittoniana, which grows in dry scrub and sandhills, Nolina atopocarpa occurs in the grassy areas of wet flatwoods — a wetter habitat than any other nolina occupies. This makes it unique within the genus as a species tolerant of seasonal moisture.
Conservation
State-threatened in Florida. Rare and declining due to habitat loss and fire suppression, like Nolina brittoniana.
References
POWO (2026). Nolina atopocarpa. Plants of the World Online, Kew.
Florida Natural Areas Inventory: Nolina atopocarpa field guide.