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Purple Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)

Purple Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)

Many landscapes look great in spring, but lose a lot of their interest in fall and winter months. Once identified, this problem is easily corrected by adding a few interesting plants.

There are many elements of landscape design. Color, line, balance, proportion, natural transition and simplicity are all elements to consider in a good landscape design. Movement is another design element that adds interest. This can be accomplished in many ways, such as a circulating pond or a babbling water fall. Movement can also be attained by adding some unique and interesting plants to your landscape.

Purple Muhly Grass is one commonly used ornamental grass that also has many other desirable traits. In late summer through late fall it explodes into bloom with clouds of pinkish/purple blooms. When in bloom this plant is billowing and delicate, almost fluid in movement as it adds a dramatic look to your property at a time when many other plants are starting to decline. If planted in a location with the early morning or late evening sun in the background, they are especially stunning. If you have a boring space on your property this can be an extremely colorful addition and it is very warm to the eye.

Muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris), is a native to Florida and is a fall favorite for many Central Florida landscapes. This native grass forms clumps (is not invasive) of very fine blue-green foliage that provides both color and texture to the garden. Muhly Grass is exceptionally drought tolerant and, once established can usually be watered once a week. It grows to heights of 2-3 feet with a spread of 2-3 feet. It prefers full sun to part shade and does best in average to dry soil where there is very good drainage. This plant does not tolerate winter wetness well.

Best of all this plant requires almost no perpetual maintenance as long as its basic watering needs are met and, it is usually free of pests and disease. You should cut back dormant growth in winter before new growth begins to emerge in early spring.

This is a great plant for xeriscapes. Muhly Grass is rated hardy in USDA Zones 6-11.