Wright’s Muhly

(Muhlenbergia wrightii)

Wright’s Muhly (Muhlenbergia wrightii)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Muhlenbergia wrightii, commonly known as Wright’s Muhly or Spike Muhly, is a perennial grass native to open woodlands, grasslands, and rocky slopes in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It typically grows up to 3 feet tall and wide, with a clumping form that creates a dense tuft of fine, blue-green foliage. In the fall, it produces delicate, airy flower spikes that are pinkish to silver in color, adding a soft texture and a hint of color to the landscape. The flowers are moderately showy and can persist into winter, providing visual interest even after the growing season ends.

Wright’s Muhly is valued for its drought tolerance and low maintenance requirements, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens, xeriscaping, and restoration projects. It is also used for erosion control due to its robust root system. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soils. While it is adaptable to a range of soil types, it performs best in soils that are not overly rich in organic matter. This grass is not typically associated with any serious diseases or pests, but it can self-seed and spread if conditions are favorable, which should be considered in garden planning.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1.5-2.5 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, grasslands, and rocky slopes

Other Names

Common Names: Wright’s Muhly, Wright’s Muhlenbergia

Scientific Names: , Muhlenbergia wrightii, Muhlenbergia coloradensis, Muhlenbergia wrightii var. annulata,

GBIF Accepted Name: