Every fall, for the past few years, the muhly grass has put on a stunning show on the walls of the Flint RiverQuarium. During the year, what looks like clumps of grass makes the RiverQuarium sparkle when it is in full bloom and blowing in the wind.
Photo by: James Morgan
Muhlenbergia capillaris or its common name muhly grass, is a perennial ornamental with a grass or grass-like habit that can reach 2 to 3 feet tall and up to 3 feet wide at maturity. Even when not in bloom muhly grass looks good in the landscape with its slender, dark green foliage.
Around October, muhly grass produces fluffy pink to purple flower stalks that can reach up to 5 feet tall and give the plant a distinctive and attractive appearance. For the best visual effect in the landscape, this grass should be planted in large groups.
Photo by:James Morgan
With little care muhly grass grows best in sunny locations with in sandy to sandy-loam soils. They should be spaced 24 to 36 inches apart. Because of the low to medium water use, this plant has good drought tolerance.
Once established muhly grass can be pruned back in late winter before the spring growth. As the plants age they can be lifted in early spring and divided to create new plant.
Sources: UF/IFAS Garden Solution and Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center