Publication: Proc. Calif. Acad. Sci. 4: 103. 1870.

Origin: Native

selected vouchers: WS

Notes: FNA24: "Melica aristata grows from 1000–3000 m in open fir and pine woods. It is restricted to the Flora region, being native from Washington to southern California. It has also been found in Kentucky, possibly as an introduction from contaminated seed. Melica aristata is easily distinguished from most species of Melica by its conspicuous awns."

This species has not been collected in Washington in over 100 years. It is best considered extirpated at this time.

References: (none)