Pink Muhly Grass

Description:  There are plenty of ornamental grasses to choose from, but few are as spectacular and low-maintenance as pink muhly grass. Preferring warm, dry climates, this grass is popular for landscaping residential areas, highway medians, meadows, and parks. The beauty of this swaying grass with its pink plumes make the plant an attractive addition to any garden. In the spring and summer, the slender, long shoots of grass are green in color. As the fall approaches, the plant produces soft, fuzzy flowers in pink or pinkish-red hues which are often compared to the appearance of cotton candy. As winter grows near, the flowers lose their color but the dried plumes continue to offer visual appeal throughout the dormant season. For more information see: plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/muhlenbergia-capillaris

Care and Growing Tips:  Aside from occasional pruning and dividing the plants every few years, pink muhly grass rarely requires much intervention. These plants thrive in full sunlight, prefer dry-to-medium moisture, well-drained soil, and rarely need fertilizer for healthy, abundant growth. These problem-free plants are not prone to pests or diseases. Pink muhly grass needs to be planted in full to partial sunlight. It can tolerate some shade, but for proper growth and blooming, the grass requires at least six or more hours of sunlight each day.

The most important thing to know is that this type of grass requires dry-to-medium, well-draining soil. If the soil becomes too wet or boggy, pink muhly grass will not thrive.

Once pink muhly grass is established, it doesn’t require much in the way of regular irrigation if rainfall is sufficient. It’s considered to be drought-tolerant and prefers soil moisture to be dry-to-medium. There's no need to run for the watering can if you experience short bouts of dry weather. The deep roots of this grass plant enable it to thrive even in dry, hot conditions. Most ornamental grasses thrive without the addition of fertilizer. Too much nitrogen can even have a detrimental effect on plants like pink muhly grass and cause the shoots to become limp. It’s best to do a soil test to determine whether or not your soil nutrients need a boost.