Genus Xerophyllum is a group of plants native to North America, and more specifically to the western and eastern parts. Commonly known as bear grass, this genus includes several species that are used in traditional medicine, basket weaving, and decoration. Depending on the region or language, Genus Xerophyllum may have different synonyms. In English, bear grass is the most common term, but it can also be referred to as Indian basket grass, quip-quip, elk grass, or soap grass. In Spanish, it is called hierba de la culebra (snake herb), while the indigenous people of various tribes have their own names, such as Laka kichute (Lakota), Qwauqunak (Yakama), or Sqaqwelhalum (Coast Salish).