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(Muhlenbergia porteri)
Bush Muhly (Muhlenbergia porteri)
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Cecelia Alexander
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Cecelia Alexander
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CC0 1.0
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Photo by: Cecelia Alexander | License Type: CC0 1.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/ | Uploader: aspidoscelis | Publisher: Flickr
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Muhlenbergia porteri, commonly known as Bush Muhly or Porter’s Muhly, is a perennial bunchgrass native to desert grasslands, rocky slopes, and open woodlands in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is well-adapted to arid environments and often found in elevations from 1000 to 2500 meters. This grass typically grows wiry, knotted stems up to about 80 centimeters tall and forms dense clumps. The inflorescence is an open array of spreading, thread-thin branches bearing small, awned spikelets, which are most notable during its bloom period in May and June. The flowers are not particularly showy but add a delicate texture to the landscape.
Bush Muhly is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used for erosion control on slopes and in restoration projects. In cultivation, it requires full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While it does best with medium amounts of water, it can survive with less once established. Bush Muhly is not known for significant pest or disease problems, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0
Bush Muhly is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used for erosion control on slopes and in restoration projects. In cultivation, it requires full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While it does best with medium amounts of water, it can survive with less once established. Bush Muhly is not known for significant pest or disease problems, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Grass
- Height: 1-3 feet
- Width: 1-2 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Native to desert grasslands, rocky slopes, and open woodlands in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico
Other Names
Common Names: Porter’s Muhly
Scientific Names: , Muhlenbergia porteri, Muhlenbergia texana, Podosemum porteri,
GBIF Accepted Name: Muhlenbergia porteri Scribn.