Muhlenbergia capillaris
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Muhlenbergia capillaris

Purple grass · Long-awn hairgrass · Hairy-awn muhly · Hairawn muhly

Tier 2 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun Toxicity: low
Temperature
15–37 °C
Soil pH
5–6
Hardiness
Zone 7–11
Click count
345
Observations
258

Description

Source: leafsnap

Muhlenbergia capillaris, commonly known as Gulf muhly or hairawn muhly, is a perennial grass species native to the southeastern United States. This plant is highly regarded as an ornamental option for its striking pinkish-purple inflorescences that bloom in late summer and fall. Typically growing in clumps, Gulf muhly can reach heights of up to 3 feet. Its leaves are narrow, green, and possess a slight bluish tint. Gulf muhly thrives in well-drained soils and full sun exposure but can also tolerate partial shade. While it is drought-tolerant once established, occasional watering during extended dry periods can be beneficial. Beyond its ornamental appeal, Gulf muhly offers important ecological benefits. Its deep root system helps prevent soil erosion and provides habitat for various wildlife species, including birds and insects. Overall, Muhlenbergia capillaris is an attractive and versatile grass species that enhances garden aesthetics while offering significant ecological contributions to the landscape.

🌳 Pink muhly grass is often hailed as one of the most attractive ornamental grasses, known for its stunning pink plumes that maintain their vibrant color for weeks before transitioning to a tan hue. Even after the color change, the plant retains its appeal throughout the winter. It thrives in hot and dry climates and serves as a beautiful enhancement to beds and borders in cottage, rock, and coastal gardens. Additionally, pink muhly grass integrates well into more naturalistic landscapes and is an excellent choice for meadows and prairies.

🎭 Airy, feathery, ethereal

Care Guide

💧 Water
☀️ Light Full sun
Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 15–37.8°C
Ideal temperature: 15–37.8°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 5-6
Soil pH: 5-6
🌱 Fertilizer
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Grass
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Muhlenbergia
Family
Poaceae
Hardiness Zone
8-11
Mature Height
30 cm to 91 cm
Mature Spread
1.22 m
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Pink
Flower Size
15.24 cm
Bloom Time
Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
Harvest Time
Fall
Native Area
Bahamas, Mexico, Guatemala, Cuba

Tags (13)

Common Names (4)

en Purple grass
en Long-awn hairgrass
en Hairy-awn muhly
en Hairawn muhly