Muhlenbergia rigens, or Deer Muhly Grass, is a clump-forming, cool-season perennial grass native to the southwestern U.S. (from California to Texas) and Mexico. It has slender gray-green leaves that typically grow in a dense clump 2-4 feet tall. The stems start erect but arch outward as the summer progresses, creating an attractive weeping effect. In September-October, narrow purple to yellow flower spikes (the color comes from the anthers) rise above the foliage clump to 5-6 feet. The foliage turns a light straw color in the fall, and clumps may maintain good color and form in milder winters.

 

This grass thrives in average to dry-medium, well-drained soils in full sun, but it also grows well in light shade. It has good drought tolerance and can tolerate many soil types except for consistently wet conditions.