Aristida is a genus of grasses commonly known as needlegrasses. These grasses are characterized by their long, slender, and often needle-like seed heads, which can be quite distinctive. They are typically found in dry, open habitats, such as prairies and grasslands, and are well-adapted to withstand drought conditions. There are several species within the Aristida genus, and they are distributed across various regions, particularly in North America and Australia. These grasses play an important role in their ecosystems, providing habitat and food for various wildlife species while also contributing to soil stability.