Soft Muhly

(Muhlenbergia pubescens)

Soft Muhly (Muhlenbergia pubescens)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Muhlenbergia pubescens, commonly known as Soft Muhly, is a deciduous perennial grass native to open woodlands and grasslands in Central and Northeastern Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters), forming dense clumps of fine-textured foliage. Soft Muhly is noted for its delicate, feathery inflorescences that appear in late summer to fall, providing a soft, hazy effect in the landscape. The flowers are not particularly showy but add a subtle beauty to the plant’s overall appearance.

Soft Muhly is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in a variety of soil conditions, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. It is often used in naturalistic plantings, as an accent in borders, or for erosion control on slopes. This grass prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade and requires well-drained soil to perform best. While generally disease-free, it can suffer from root rot in overly wet conditions. Soft Muhly is not known for aggressive roots or significant pest problems, making it a reliable choice for many garden settings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands and grasslands in Central and Northeastern Mexico

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Muhlenbergia pubescens, Muhlenbergia lanata, Epicampes pubescens, Agrostis pubens, Epicampes lanata, Agrostis lanata, Cinna lanata, Cinna pubescens, Muehlenbergia lanata

GBIF Accepted Name: Muhlenbergia pubescens (Kunth) Hitchc.