Esparto Grass (Stipa tenacissima), also known as Halfah Grass or Atocha, is a tough, perennial ornamental grass distinguished by its dense clumps of narrow, wiry, light green to straw-colored leaves. The foliage forms a fountain-like shape, and tall, slender flowering stalks emerge above the plant, giving it a striking, sculptural quality in arid landscapes.

Native to the western Mediterranean, including southern Spain and North Africa, Stipa tenacissima thrives in dry, rocky, and sun-exposed habitats such as steppes, hillsides, and semi-desert regions. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is well-adapted to harsh, drought-prone environments.

Historically important for its strong fibers, Esparto Grass has been used for centuries in the making of rope, baskets, paper, and traditional crafts. In modern landscapes, it is appreciated for its textural contrast, movement in the wind, and durability. Its architectural form and cultural legacy make it both an ornamental feature and a symbol of Mediterranean heritage.