Muhlenbergia capillaris
pink muhly grass
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This grass dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moderately fertile, freely draining soil
- Rate of growth: average to fast
- Flowering period: September to October
- Hardiness: fully hardy
A clump-forming ornamental grass prized for its late summer clouds of pinkish flower plumes. This densely tufted, mound-shaped perennial reaches spreads slowly by rhizomes, taking on a soft, candy floss appearance when in full flower. The slender green leaves provide fine texture through summer before giving way to these iridescent pink blooms that persist into winter. Drought and salt tolerant, Muhlenbergia capillaris can be massed as a groundcover or landscape plant, though its low maintenance nature make it an easy and beautiful addition to borders, coastal gardens, and containers.
Muhlenbergia is a perennial grass that grows best in a hot, dry, sunny spot in the garden where the soil is well drained. Once established the plant is drought tolerant and requires good drainage. It is low maintenance but trim back spent flower stems in spring, and divide with a spade in the spring to create new clumps once the plants are several years old.
From late winter through to early spring, sow the seeds on the surface of a moist, well-draining seed compost, gently pressing them into the soil. Maintain a temperature of 20°C by placing them in a propagator, greenhouse, or on an indoor windowsill, covering them with a polythene bag to keep humidity high. Ensure the compost remains moist. Germination should start within 3 weeks. Once the seedlings begin to emerge, gradually increase ventilation by opening the bag or propagator vents and reduce the temperature to around 15-18°C. Continue growing the seedlings in a lightly shaded area, and when they are big enough to handle, transplant them individually into cells or 9cm pots. Once sufficiently grown, they can be planted out in a sunny spot.