Muhlenbergia rigens

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.

BONAP MAP

Height: 3'-5'
Spread: 2’-3' 
Bloom: September-November
Light: Full sun, Part Shade
Water: Low-Medium
Zone: 7, 8, 9, 10   
Origin: western-central U.S., Mexico