Nimblewill

(Muhlenbergia schreberi)

Nimblewill (Muhlenbergia schreberi)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Muhlenbergia schreberi, commonly known as Nimblewill, is a perennial grass that is typically semi-deciduous in cooler climates and can remain evergreen in warmer regions. It is native to open woodlands and forest edges as well as riparian areas in the South-Central USA and Mexico. Nimblewill reaches a modest height of 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) and spreads through stolons, forming a dense mat. It has fine-textured, wiry leaves and produces inconspicuous greenish flowers in late summer.

Nimblewill is valued for its ability to form a low-maintenance ground cover, especially in shaded areas where other grasses may struggle. It is often used in naturalized areas, as a turf substitute in shady lawns, and for erosion control due to its spreading habit. While it turns brown in winter, its shade tolerance and ability to withstand moderate cold make it suitable for southern lawns. However, gardeners should be cautious as it can spread aggressively and may become difficult to manage. Nimblewill prefers part shade but can tolerate light sun, and it grows best in moist, well-drained loamy soils. It requires medium to high amounts of water for optimal growth.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, forest edges, and riparian areas in the South-Central USA and Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Schreber’s Muhly, Schreber’s Satingrass, Nimblewill Muhly, Muhlenbergie De Schreber

Scientific Names: , Muhlenbergia schreberi, Muhlenbergia diffusa, Muhlenbergia schreberi subsp. schreberi, Muhlenbergia palustris, Muhlenbergia schreberi var. palustris, Muhlenbergia minutiflora, Agrostis oligantha, Agrostis pauciflora, Dilepyrum minutiflorum

GBIF Accepted Name: Muhlenbergia schreberi J.F.Gmel.