grassN. America Native

Pine Muhly

Muhlenbergia dubia

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low to moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southwestern U.S. and Northern Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Muhlenbergia dubia, commonly known as Pine Muhly, is a perennial grass native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It exhibits a fine texture and forms attractive, airy clumps. This species is known for its exceptional tolerance to drought and heat, thriving in well-drained, rocky or sandy soils. Its delicate, tan flower panicles appear in late summer.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides fine-textured, silvery foliage that adds a soft, flowing movement to gardens.

Erosion control on slopes due to dense root system.

Supports native pollinators and beneficial insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
Tuck seeds or divisions into the soil, spacing them adequately for growth.
Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots, maintaining consistent moisture.
Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Monitor regularly for pests and diseases, adjusting care as needed.
Prune dead or damaged foliage in late winter or early spring to promote healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Prune back dead or damaged foliage in late winter to early spring
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring for optimal growth
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t disturb roots during flowering season
Refrain from using heavy fertilization late in the season
Do not plant in poorly drained soils

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver‑foliaged borderTextural accent in prairie gardensErosion control on slopes

Companion Plants

Andropogon gerardii Schizachyrium scoparium Echinacea purpurea Rudbeckia hirta

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pine Muhly questions

What zones can Pine Muhly grow in?

Pine Muhly is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Pine Muhly deer resistant?

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

When does Pine Muhly bloom?

Pine Muhly typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Pine Muhly need full sun?

Pine Muhly does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Pine Muhly drought tolerant?

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