Pink muhly grass - Muhlenbergia capillaris (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Pink muhly grass

Also known as: Hairy-awn muhly, Hair grass, Gulf muhly

Pink muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris) is an ornamental grass that features pink and purple blossoms. This species is known to attract beneficial insect species and is also considered an excellent wildlife habitat plant due to its clumping behavior.

Scientific classification

Species

Pink muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Grass

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

30 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

1.2 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

15 cm

Flower Size

Purple, Pink, Lavender

Fruit Color

Pink, Red, Purple

Flower Color

Red

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Pink muhly grass

Attributes of Pink muhly grass

Growth Rate

In Spring, pink muhly grass embarks on moderate-paced growth, utilizing the season's conducive conditions to gradually expand its foliage and height. Summer amplifies this development, leading to a significant increase in leaf production, a height jump, and the sprouting of airy, attractive pink-purple flowers. This moderate growth rate allows for consistent progress while preventing overwhelming rapid expansion that could strain pink muhly grass's resources.

Distribution of Pink muhly grass

Distribution Map

Pink muhly grass is a plant naturally found in the southeastern regions of North America. It thrives in areas with a warm temperate climate. Beyond its native habitat, pink muhly grass has been successfully introduced and cultivated in various parts of the world where conditions mimic its original environment.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Sandy or rocky woods, clearings, border of roads, plain prairies

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Often considered the most attractive ornamental grass, pink muhly grass is highly regarded for its unbelievably attractive pink plumes, whose color lasts for weeks before turning tan. Despite losing color, the plant remains attractive throughout the winter. It does great in hot and dry climates and makes a beautiful addition to beds and borders of cottage, rock, and coastal gardens. Pink muhly grass fits in great within a more naturalistic landscape as well and is a good choice for meadows and prairies.

Symbolism

Airy, feathery, ethereal

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Quickly Identify Pink muhly grass

Wiry, thread-like dark green leaves

Airy inflorescence in vibrant pink to purplish shades

Small, hard oval grains under 1/10 inch (2-3 mm)

Linear leaves, 18-36 inches (45-91 cm) long with parallel veins

Distinctive tan seed plumes for winter interest

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Care Guide for Pink muhly grass

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Pink muhly grass thrives in grasslands, adapts to drought, and prefers well-drained soils. It requires consistent moisture during growth and should be watered twice a week. Indoors, pink muhly grass adds texture, while outdoors, it prefers open spaces for uneven rain distribution.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, pink muhly grass benefits from a 2-inch mulch or compost layer applied in spring, enriching soil and enhancing blooms. Avoid direct stem contact to prevent rot. No additional fertilization is needed, as over-fertilization may reduce flowering and harm pink muhly grass's hardiness.

Pruning: Pink muhly grass is a semi-evergreen grass that benefits from pruning in late winter to early spring. This involves cutting back dead leaves to promote new growth. Use hedge trimmers or sharp scissors, trimming foliage to approximately 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) above the ground.

Propagation: Pink muhly grass propagates effectively via division in Spring and Autumn. Success is indicated by new growth post-division. Ensure each section has a sufficient root ball to promote strong growth.

Repotting: Repot pink muhly grass every 2-3 years in early spring. It grows up to 3 feet, requiring a slightly larger pot. Ensure well-draining soil and sufficient sunlight. Pink muhly grass is low maintenance; water sparingly to encourage flourishing pink plumes.

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