Cotton candy grass, also known as Pink Muhly Grass ‘Plumetastic,’ resembles a hazy, pinkish cloud. While similar, they are not the same species.
Pink Muhly Grass ‘Plumetastic’ is a North American native with narrow green or grayish leaves and delicate inflorescences. It is often referred to as gulf muhly, cotton candy grass, or simply pink grass. This ornamental grass is prized for its unique appearance, adding a pop of color and texture to gardens and landscapes. Ideal for sunny locations, pink muhly grass thrives in well-draining soil and requires minimal maintenance. Considered a low-maintenance plant, it can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide, making it a versatile addition to any garden design.
Pink Muhly Grass ‘Plumetastic’ Also known as gulf muhly, cotton candy grass, pink grass, pink muhly and muhly grass, this North American native has narrow green or grayish leaves and delicate inflorescences, or flower clusters, that create the illusion of a hazy, pinkish cloud.
Why is my pink muhly grass turning brown?
After your Pink Muhly Grass dies back and goes dormant for the winter, it’s time to focus on trimming and pruning. Doing so will encourage vibrant new spring growth. When your muhly grass is turning yellow or brown in color, it’s a sign that the growing season is over and your plant is preparing for dormancy.
What is a companion for pink muhly grass?
Low Down Sunflower is perfect in combination with Pink Muhly Grass. Both share light, narrow foliage, but the Sunflower adds mass and volume in the spring and summer—when Muhly Grass is rather boring. And in late summer, each plant explodes in bloom.
Is pink muhly grass drought tolerant?
Drought-tolerant: Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of pink muhly grass is its ability to tolerate little to no water in arid climes. This grass can produce its green foliage and trademark pink flowers even in the midst of a drought that would lay many other plants to waste by early fall.
How tall and spread is pink muhly grass?
Pink Muhly Grass reaches 4 feet high and 3 feet wide, with a nicely cascading, fountainous habit of foliage and fanned out, unbelievably profuse blooms. Give Muhlenbergia Pink Muhly Grass plenty of sunshine and good soil drainage, and it will do the rest, beautifully withstanding heat, humidity, drought, and poor soil.
Why is my pink muhly grass dying?
Soil that is always wet can cause root rot, and heavily compacted soil will stunt its growth and reduce flowering quite dramatically. If you live in a dry, hot climate, Pink Muhly Grass will grow and flower best when it is watered deeply on a regular basis.
What is a companion plant for pink muhly grass?
Low Down Sunflower is perfect in combination with Pink Muhly Grass. Both share light, narrow foliage, but the Sunflower adds mass and volume in the spring and summer—when Muhly Grass is rather boring. And in late summer, each plant explodes in bloom.
Do rabbits eat pink muhly grass?
Gophers and rabbits can chew the plants down. Pink Muhly grass is attractive when planted en masse, great for defining borders or for filling areas with poor soil conditions.
What does pink muhly grass look like when not in bloom?
After your Pink Muhly Grass dies back and goes dormant for the winter, it’s time to focus on trimming and pruning. Doing so will encourage vibrant new spring growth. When your muhly grass is turning yellow or brown in color, it’s a sign that the growing season is over and your plant is preparing for dormancy.
Is there a dwarf pink muhly grass?
Add a unique and breathtaking touch to your garden with the dwarf pink Muhly grass plant. Its vibrant pink “hairgrass” creates a playful yet sophisticated display in autumn.
Why is my pink muhly grass flopping over?
Pink Muhly takes average moisture in containers and should not stay wet. Overwatering, particularly during dormancy, can be problematic. Plants can be cut back if they are too tall or floppy. If you do cut back, do so by early August so flowering is not interrupted.
Does pink muhly grass come back every year?
Pink muhly grass flourishes in warm, dry weather. While it’s native as far north as Massachusetts, it’s often found in abundance in hot, dry climates where it grows well and returns year after year.
Does pink muhly grass reseed itself?
Although not a native to Southern California, Pink Muhly grass is an ornamental, non-invasive, drought tolerant plant. Since it does not aggressively reseed, it is cited in numerous sources as a good replacement plant for invasive grasses.
Does pink muhly spread?
Does Pink Muhly Grass spread or invasive? Pink Muhly Grass does not spread and is not invasive. The root system does not have rhizomes or stolons. It forms clumps that will reach 10-12″ wide, but full mature growth of the blades can be 2-3′.
Is pink muhly grass invasive?
Pink Muhly Grass is a non-invasive, fast-growing, low-maintenance plant. It’s resistant to pests, deer, and most diseases. Muhly Grasses are happiest in full sun but will survive in partially shaded locations, as long as the soil isn’t too moist. Pink Muhly boasts deep green foliage during the spring and early summer.
Does pink muhly grass multiply?
How to Propagate Pink Muhly Grass. This ornamental grass is easy to grow from seed or you can propagate it by division every three years. Simply dig up a clump in early spring and cut the root ball into two or three new clumps, keeping some roots and green foliage on each one.
In conclusion, while cotton candy grass and pink muhly grass share similarities in their fluffy, pink appearance, they are different species with distinct characteristics. Cotton candy grass, also known as Muhlenbergia capillaris, tends to have a softer texture and a more vibrant pink hue compared to pink muhly grass, which is Muhlenbergia lindheimeri. Both ornamental grasses bring a delicate beauty to gardens and landscapes, but it’s important to recognize the unique qualities of each to make an informed choice for your own green spaces. Whichever grass you choose, these stunning plants are sure to add a touch of whimsy and elegance to your outdoor environment.