Stay in the know about wildlife, water quality, and ecosystems on Sanibel and Captiva Islands and in Southwest Florida
Meet the Natives: Muhly Grass
This week, we are highlighting Muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris).
“This time of year you’ve likely noticed the showy blooms of this native grass,” said SCCF Native Landscapes & Garden Center Assistant Sophie Carpenter. “The flowers are a gorgeous pink to red color. For a spectacular pop of color in the fall, plant this grass in a large group, or intermix in a wildflower garden.”
Muhly grass is perennial and found throughout the southeastern United States, including Florida’s coastal counties and many of its inland counties. It is an adaptable species found in a variety of habitats, including flatwoods, coastal uplands, and marsh edges.
Muhly grass prefers full sun and moist to dry, well-draining soils.
“This is a hardy, drought tolerant, and low-maintenance grass species. It is also considered moderately salt tolerant, with the ability to tolerate some salt spray and brief periods of inundation,” Carpenter said. “Muhly grass’s wide-spreading root system also makes it an excellent choice for erosion control.”
Typically, Muhly grass gets 2 feet to 4 feet tall and blooms in the late fall.
“Its showy flowers are a unique trait among grass species, which typically have more inconspicuous blooms,” Carpenter said.
Muhly grass is an excellent addition to wildlife gardens. Its clumping growth habit provides excellent habitat and cover for wildlife, and the seeds are eaten by a variety of bird species.
Further Reading
Learn more or purchase Muhly grass at SCCF’s Native Landscapes & Garden Center at 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL.