Melinis repens, commonly known as rose Natal grass or Natal red top, is a perennial grass native to open grasslands and savannas of southern Africa. It can grow up to 1 meter tall and is characterized by its silky, fluffy inflorescences that are usually white or pink, which are particularly showy during its flowering season from late spring to autumn. The plant’s overall appearance is graceful, with narrow leaves and a tufted growth habit.

Rose Natal grass is appreciated for its ornamental value, especially the attractive color and texture of its inflorescences. It is used in gardens for mass plantings, as an accent in borders, or for naturalistic landscaping. In cultivation, it prefers full sun and well-drained soils, and once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant. However, it can self-seed prolifically, which contributes to its invasive potential in suitable climates outside its native range. Gardeners should be cautious and check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0