
Pink Muhly Grass
Muhlenbergia capillaris
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
36 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Muhlenbergia capillaris, commonly known as pink muhly grass, is a warm-season perennial grass native to the southeastern United States. It features stunning pink to purple fluffy flower heads that appear in late summer and persist into the fall. Notable for its dramatic and airy plumes that provide unique texture and color in landscapes, particularly valuable for mass plantings and as an ornamental grass.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select well-draining soil with moderate moisture levels.
- Tuck seeds into soil surface and lightly press down.
- Mist cuttings or seeds to keep moist during germination.
- Transplant seedlings when they have several leaves, usually after 4-6 weeks.
- Space plants 12-18 inches apart for optimal growth.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun for best flowering and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged foliage to promote healthy growth
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
- Fertilize with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t forget to remove weeds that compete for nutrients
- Refrain from heavy fertilization late in the season
- Avoid planting in dense, poorly-drained soils
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Pink Muhly Grass questions
What zones can Pink Muhly Grass grow in?
Pink Muhly Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Pink Muhly Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Pink Muhly Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Pink Muhly Grass bloom?
Pink Muhly Grass typically blooms in fall through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Pink Muhly Grass need full sun?
Pink Muhly Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Pink Muhly Grass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Pink Muhly Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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