Bull Grass

Plant Type: evergreen to semi-evergreen ornamental grass
Plant Height: 3–4 feet (foliage); up to 5 feet with bloom plumes
Spread: 3–4 feet
Flower Color: pinkish-purple aging to tan
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Bull Grass (Muhlenbergia emersleyi): Hardy, Flowing Plumes for Desert Landscapes

Bull Grass is a tough, adaptable ornamental grass native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It produces graceful, arching foliage topped with airy pinkish-purple plumes in late summer and fall. Well-suited for Arizona landscapes, it offers year-round texture, movement, and seasonal color with minimal care.

Key Features of Bull Grass

• Seasonal Blooms: Pinkish-purple flower spikes in late summer that fade to tan, lasting into winter.
• Year-Round Texture: Fine-textured green foliage remains attractive through the seasons.
• Heat & Drought Tolerant: Thrives in desert conditions once established.
• Wildlife-Friendly: Provides habitat for birds and shelter for beneficial insects.

Growing and Care Tips

Bull Grass is easy to grow and thrives in various landscape settings.

Soil: Prefers well-draining sandy or rocky soils; amend clay for better drainage.
Water: Moderate during establishment; once mature, water every 3–4 weeks in summer.
Fertilizer: Light feeding in spring will encourage fresh growth.
Pruning: Cut back to 6–8 inches in late winter before new growth emerges.

Landscaping Uses

• Accent Plant: Adds movement and seasonal interest to desert beds.
• Mass Plantings: Beautiful in drifts for a naturalized look.
• Erosion Control: Helps stabilize slopes with its dense root system.
• Mixed Borders: Pairs well with flowering perennials and desert shrubs.

Summary

Bull Grass is a dependable ornamental grass that handles heat, drought, and poor soils with ease. Its soft plumes and fine foliage provide texture and color, making it a valuable addition to water-wise gardens.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Bull Grass

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for best flowering; tolerates partial shade.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soils preferred.
Spacing: Plant 3–4 feet apart for mass plantings.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not required—naturally forms a sturdy, arching clump.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to moisten soil 6–8 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Generally after 2–3 months of consistent watering.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 3–4 weeks.
• Winter: Water every 6–8 weeks if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Position 1 emitter 8–12 inches from plant base.
Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One for younger plants; two for mature clumps.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase slightly in extreme heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Bull Grass:

• Soil Check: Allow top 3 inches to dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: Can lead to root rot in poorly drained soils.
• Mulch: Use gravel mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds.