Muhlenbergia capillaris

RHS Plant Profile
pink muhly grass
Grass Like

A densely tufted, perennial evergreen grass, forming a mound of linear, dark green leaves to 30cm long. From midsummer to late autumn it produces airy, open clusters of pink spikelets held on slender stems above the foliage; these are good for cutting. Drought tolerant once established and suitable for coastal sites or containers

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Poaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Tufted
Genus
A genus of plants within the grass family which are native to arid and semi-arid Southern USA and Mexico. These ornamental grasses are clump-forming and include varieties in greens, pinks and blues
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
USA to Guatemala, Caribbean

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. In containers, grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in full light

Propagation

Propagate by seed or division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Prairie planting
  • Low Maintenance
  • Banks and slopes
  • Cut flowers

Pruning

Trim back spent flower stems in spring

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free