Muhlenbergia cuspidata, commonly known as Plains Muhly, is a perennial grass native to the Great Plains of North America, including central Canada and the central United States. It is adapted to a wide range of habitats, including shortgrass prairies, open woodlands, and grassy slopes, often co-dominant with species like Blue Grama (Bouteloua gracilis) and Western Wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii). Plains Muhly forms dense clumps with stems that can reach up to 24 inches tall and narrow leaves that may be flat or folded. It is a hardy species, capable of withstanding periods of drought and poor soil conditions.

Plains Muhly is valued for its low maintenance requirements and its ability to thrive in tough environmental conditions, making it an excellent choice for restoration projects and naturalized areas. It is also used in xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance. The plant’s fine-textured foliage and delicate seed heads provide visual interest in the landscape, particularly when backlit by the sun. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to light shade and can tolerate a variety of soil types, provided they are well-drained. While it is not commonly used for ornamental purposes, it can be an effective ground cover or accent plant in native gardens. Plains Muhly has no major disease or pest issues, but it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. It is not known to be invasive when grown outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0