grass

Sweetgrass, Dune Hairgrass

Muhlenbergia sericea

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

36 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southeastern U.S. coastal areas

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Muhlenbergia sericea, also known as Dune Hairgrass or Sweetgrass, is a clump-forming, warm-season perennial grass noted for its fine-textured, blue-green foliage and large, airy, silvery-white flower panicles that appear in fall. This species is valued for its drought tolerance, attractive feathery flower display, and ability to provide texture and movement in garden designs with minimal maintenance.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Adds fine texture and silvery hue to landscape, providing visual interest year-round.

Drought tolerant and erosion resistant, reduces water needs and soil runoff.

Provides habitat and food for native insects and birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring
Mist cuttings or divide clumps in early spring or fall
Water regularly until established, then drought tolerant
Thin plants to improve air circulation in late spring
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Prune back dead foliage in late winter or early spring

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells 🌱
Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
Remove dead foliage in late winter
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
Plant in poorly drained soil ❌
Neglect pruning or dividing ❌
Use heavy fertilization, as it prefers low nutrients ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Harvest
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silvery‑foliaged borderDrought‑resistant meadowSoftening gravel pathways

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Rudbeckia hirta Sedum spp. Lavandula angustifolia Festuca glauca

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sweetgrass, Dune Hairgrass questions

What zones can Sweetgrass, Dune Hairgrass grow in?

Sweetgrass, Dune Hairgrass is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Sweetgrass, Dune Hairgrass deer resistant?

Yes — Sweetgrass, Dune Hairgrass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Sweetgrass, Dune Hairgrass bloom?

Sweetgrass, Dune Hairgrass typically blooms in fall through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Sweetgrass, Dune Hairgrass need full sun?

Sweetgrass, Dune Hairgrass does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Sweetgrass, Dune Hairgrass drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sweetgrass, Dune Hairgrass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.