grassN. America Native

Deergrass

Name: Deergrass
Brand: Muhlenbergia
Availability: InStock

Muhlenbergia rigens

$16.50

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

48 inches

Width

42 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southern California and Baja California

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Muhlenbergia rigens, commonly known as deergrass, is a perennial, clump-forming grass native to the southwestern United States. It is characterized by its graceful, arching foliage and provides excellent textural interest in landscapes. This species is known for its resilience to drought and low-maintenance attributes, making it an ideal choice for xeriscaping.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Muhlenbergia rigens adds fine texture and silvery color to garden borders and xeriscapes, providing year-round visual interest.

Its drought tolerance reduces water needs, making it ideal for water-wise gardening.

Provides habitat and food for pollinators and beneficial insects, supporting local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Dancing Oaks

<1 Gal Pot

In Stock$16.50

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select well-draining soil with sandy or loamy texture.
Tuck seeds into soil surface and lightly press down.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Transplant seedlings when they are strong and well-established, about 6 weeks.
Space plants 12-18 inches apart for optimal growth.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot during establishment.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Prune dead or damaged foliage in early spring
Fertilize with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring
Monitor for pests and treat promptly
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to rejuvenate

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent soggy roots ❌
Don’t fertilize in late fall or winter
Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall
Don’t ignore signs of pests or disease
Avoid planting in heavy clay soil

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

Silver-foliaged borderDrought-tolerant groundcoverArchitectural accent in xeriscape

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Lavandula angustifolia Sedum spp. Agave americana Salvia nemorosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Deergrass questions

What zones can Deergrass grow in?

Deergrass 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 Deergrass deer resistant?

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

When does Deergrass bloom?

Deergrass 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 Deergrass need full sun?

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

Is Deergrass drought tolerant?

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