muhly

Muhly, or muhly grass, refers to grasses in the genus Muhlenbergia, in the family Poaceae. The genus is named for Gotthilf Heinrich von Muhlenberg, an 18th-century botanist and clergyman after whom the group was named. The genus Muhlenbergia contains about 30 species of perennial grasses native to the Americas, with the greatest diversity in Mexico and the southwestern United States.

Habitat and ecology vary across species, but Muhlenbergia grasses are commonly found in grasslands, open woodlands, deserts, and montane regions. They are typically warm-season grasses that grow in clumps or as spreading tufts, with slender leaves and delicate, often airy inflorescences. The flowering structures can be compact or loose, and many species provide a fine texture to landscapes.

The best-known species for ornamental use is pink muhly grass, Muhlenbergia capillaris. It features powder-pink to reddish-purple plumes that rise above mounded foliage in late summer to autumn, creating a striking display in gardens and public plantings. Other species, such as Muhlenbergia rigida (rigid muhly), are valued for their architectural form and drought tolerance in appropriate climates.

Cultivation and horticultural use emphasize full sun and well-drained soil. Muhlenbergia typically requires moderate moisture during establishment and becomes drought-tolerant once established. It is used in borders, meadow plantings, massed treatments, and naturalistic landscapes, and may be pruned back in late winter to maintain shape and vigor.

Notable species include Muhlenbergia capillaris and Muhlenbergia rigida, among others.