
Images Depict Mature Plants
Airy Pink Plumes That Dance in the Fall Sunlight
A Late-Season Showstopper
Muhlenbergia capillaris, better known as Pink Muhly Grass, is one of the most stunning native ornamental grasses for North American landscapes. In late summer to fall, airy pink flower plumes rise above fine, blue-green foliage, creating a cloud-like effect that shimmers in sunlight. Few perennials offer such a breathtaking display of texture and color with so little maintenance required.
Tough, Adaptable, and Drought-Tolerant
This warm-season grass thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating heat, drought, and even poor soils once established. Growing 2–3 feet tall and wide, Pink Muhly Grass forms graceful mounds that move beautifully with the wind, bringing motion and softness to garden beds.
Low-Maintenance and Wildlife-Friendly
Pink Muhly Grass is deer- and rabbit-resistant, requiring no pruning beyond an early-spring cleanup. Its feathery plumes attract beneficial insects and provide nesting cover for birds, making it both functional and beautiful.
Perfect for Borders, Mass Plantings, and Containers
Use Pink Muhly Grass as a specimen plant, along walkways, or in large drifts for a dramatic massed effect. Its fall color glows when planted near dark evergreens or stone features. It also thrives in containers, adding height and texture to seasonal arrangements.

Botanical Name | Muhlenbergia capillaris |
---|---|
Hardiness Zone: | 6-10 |
Mature Height: | 2 to 3 Feet |
Mature Width: | 2 to 3 Feet |
Sunlight: | Full Sun |
Water Requirements: | Low once established |
Soil | Well-drained, sandy or loamy soils |
Bloom Time / Color: | Late Summer to Fall / Airy Pink Plumes |
Resistance | Deer- and rabbit-resistant |
Landscape Uses | Borders, mass plantings, slopes, containers, meadows |
How to Care for Pink Muhly Grass
Before you buy a Pink Muhly Grass, make sure to read about the care instructions to keep this plant healthy and thriving.

How should I plant Pink Muhly Grass?
Select a location with full sun and well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball. Place the plant so the crown sits level with the soil surface, backfill, and water deeply. For mass plantings, space 24–36 inches apart to allow for mature spread and airflow. Apply mulch to help retain moisture and reduce weeds, but keep it away from the crown.

How often should I water Pink Muhly Grass after planting?
Water deeply once or twice a week during the first growing season to help roots establish. After establishment, Pink Muhly Grass thrives on neglect—it’s drought-tolerant and prefers dry to moderate moisture levels. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

When should I fertilize Pink Muhly Grass?
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer if soil is poor. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can cause floppy growth. In most gardens, Pink Muhly Grass grows beautifully without regular feeding.

When and how should I prune Pink Muhly Grass?
Cut back old foliage to 3–4 inches above the ground in late winter or very early spring before new growth emerges. Avoid pruning in fall, as the plumes provide winter interest and shelter for wildlife.