Family: Poaceae
Author: (Lam.) Trin.
Bibliography: Gram. Unifl. Sesquifl.: 191 (1824)
Year: 1824
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Muhlenbergia
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. & E. U.S.A. to Guatemala, Caribbean
Description
Muhlenbergia capillaris, commonly known as Purple grass, is a stunning ornamental grass valued for its delicate and airy appearance. This perennial species is notable for its finely textured, wiry foliage that transforms dramatically with the seasons.
From late summer to fall, Muhlenbergia capillaris produces masses of tiny, purplish-pink flowers that form airy, cloud-like inflorescences, hence the common name Purple grass. These blooms create a mesmerizing effect as they sway gently in the breeze, adding vibrant color and movement to gardens and landscapes. The plant is primarily known for its fall display, which can last several weeks, bringing a unique and enchanting beauty to any setting.
Native to the central and eastern United States, ranging from the coastal plains to the open woodlands, Muhlenbergia capillaris extends its range southwards to Guatemala and is also found in the Caribbean. This wide distribution speaks to its versatility and adaptability in different climates and soil conditions. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade, making it a resilient option for gardeners.
Belonging to the Poaceae family, Muhlenbergia capillaris is not only admired for its aesthetic appeal but also for its ease of care. It is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for sustainable landscaping. Furthermore, it can be used effectively in mass plantings, borders, and even as a striking specimen plant.
First documented by (Lam.) Trin. in 1824, as noted in the “Gram. Unifl. Sesquifl.: 191,” this grass has stood the test of time, demonstrating both beauty and resilience. Today, it remains a favorite among landscape designers and homeowners alike, continuing to captivate with its graceful presence and seasonal splendor.
In summary, Purple grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris) offers an elegant and easy-to-grow option for adding a splash of color and texture to outdoor spaces. Its ethereal plumes and hardy nature make it a quintessential addition to gardens, embodying the best of ornamental grasses.
Common Names
Eng: hairy-awn muhly, long-awn hairgrass, purple grass
En: Purple grass, Long-awn hairgrass, Hairy-awn muhly, Hairawn muhly, Hair-Awn Muhly, Hairawn muhly-Sweetgrass
Zh: 粉黛乱子草
Ko: 핑크뮬리
Es: Yerba de pelos, Rabo de pavo real
Synonyms
- Muhlenbergia trichodes (Steud.)
- Muhlenbergia polypogon ((DC.) Trin.)
- Tosagris agrostidea (P.Beauv.)
- Podosemum agrostideum ((P.Beauv.) P.Beauv.)
- Trichochloa capillaris ((Lam.) DC.)
- Podosemum capillare ((Lam.) Desv.)
- Trichochloa polypogon (DC.)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Bahamas (native)
- Connecticut (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Delaware (native)
- District of Columbia (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Puerto Rico (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Leaf
Taken Nov 2, 2021 by Greg Daveau (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 20, 2020 by Aaron Harp (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 12, 2022 by Dan Maxwell (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 12, 2022 by Dan Maxwell (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 12, 2022 by Dan Maxwell (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Oct 22, 2012 by EOL − Sharpj99 (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 26, 2022 by Alessandro Salinardi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 18, 2022 by Cobler Nil (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 10, 2021 by Carlos Morate (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 12, 2022 by Dan Maxwell (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jan 17, 2021 by Alexia Laborde (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 10, 2021 by Marco Elerdini (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 10, 2021 by Marco Elerdini (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 3, 2020 by la spisa michela (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 17, 2021 by Alexia Laborde (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Sep 27, 2022 by Natural Ethik (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken May 20, 2020 by Aaron Harp (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jan 10, 2022 by Cloé Rouch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 2, 2022 by mattottam (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2704016)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:408959-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Muhlenbergia capillaris (Lam.) Trin.)
Specifications
Growth form>: Bunch
Growth habit>: Graminoid
Growth rate>: Moderate
Growth
Ph maximum: 6.8
Ph minimum: 5.8