Swallenia

Swallenia is a monotypic genus of grass endemic to the saline meadows of Fish Lake Valley in Esmeralda County, Nevada, USA. It contains only one species, Swallenia alexandrae, commonly known as Alexandra's alkali grass or Swallenia grass.

The genus is named in honor of Jason Richard Swallen, an American agrostologist who worked for the Smithsonian Institution. Swallenia alexandrae is a perennial bunchgrass adapted to harsh, alkaline soil conditions. It is a relatively short grass, typically growing to a height of 10-30 centimeters.

Swallenia alexandrae is listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act due to its limited distribution and the threats posed by habitat degradation and alteration, particularly from grazing and water diversion. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this unique and geographically restricted species and its fragile habitat. These efforts include monitoring populations, controlling grazing, and managing water resources. The grass plays a role in stabilizing the soil in its alkaline environment and provides limited forage for some wildlife.