Muhly Grass

If you're a fan of ornamental grasses, Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris) is one you simply must have. A foolproof Florida native that is drought-tolerant and happy in full sun or part shade, Muhly Grass is green and full most of the year. For about six weeks each fall, though, Muhly Grass puts on an amazing display as it goes to seed.

This is a very overlooked Florida native that should be more readily available outside native plant nurseries. You'll find it planted in medians and even parking lot dividers at places like Lowe's, but the big box nurseries are more likely to offer fountain grass species (Pennisetum) instead, some of which are beginning to appear on the invasive plant lists. However, this time of year, it is sometimes available commercially. If you find it, we recommend you snap it up, because it’s a true bargain at any price.

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Muhly Grass is wonderful for wildlife. Planted in groupings, it creates shelter for small creatures including butterflies, who like to hang from grasses in a rainstorm or at night for protection. Songbirds love the seeds produced in the fall, and may even pluck dead stems to use in building their nests. Find Mulhly Grass at MOSI throughout the parking lot areas, where it’s an easy, no-fuss addition to a Florida-Friendly landscape.