White Cloud Muhly Grass

Plant Type: evergreen to semi-evergreen ornamental grass
Plant Height: 2–3 feet (foliage); 3–4 feet with bloom plumes
Spread: 2–3 feet
Flower Color: airy white
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

White Cloud Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris ‘White Cloud’): Elegant, Airy Plumes for Desert Landscapes

White Cloud Muhly Grass is a refined ornamental grass valued for its delicate, cloud-like plumes of pure white that rise above fine-textured green foliage in the fall. Known for its graceful movement and soft texture, it’s a beautiful, low-maintenance choice for adding lightness and contrast to Arizona gardens.

Key Features of White Cloud Muhly Grass

• Elegant White Plumes: Blooms in fall with airy, cloud-like flowers that create a soft, ethereal effect.
• Fine-Textured Foliage: Narrow green leaves provide movement and texture throughout the year.
• Drought Tolerant: Once established, thrives with minimal supplemental water.
• Low Maintenance: Requires little care beyond seasonal cutbacks.

Growing and Care Tips

White Cloud Muhly is hardy, heat-tolerant, and adaptable to many landscape styles.

Soil: Prefers well-draining sandy or loamy soils; amend clay to improve drainage.
Water: Moderate watering during establishment; water every 2–4 weeks in summer once mature.
Fertilizer: Light feeding in spring promotes vigorous growth.
Pruning: Cut back foliage to 6–8 inches in late winter to encourage fresh spring growth.

Landscaping Uses

• Accent Plant: Perfect for softening desert landscapes with light, airy texture.
• Mass Plantings: Stunning when planted in drifts or repeated throughout a design.
• Borders: Adds elegance to mixed perennial beds.
• Seasonal Interest: Provides a showy fall display with lasting plumes.

Summary

White Cloud Muhly Grass brings elegance and softness to the landscape with its airy white blooms and fine foliage. Its drought tolerance, low maintenance needs, and seasonal beauty make it a top choice for water-wise gardens.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): White Cloud Muhly Grass

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for best bloom display; tolerates partial shade.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil preferred.
Spacing: Plant 2–3 feet apart for mass plantings.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: None needed—plumes stand tall and upright naturally.

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?

• Usually after 2–3 months with consistent watering.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 2–4 weeks depending on weather.
• Winter: Water every 4–6 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 young clumps; two for mature plants.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase slightly during extreme summer heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for White Cloud Muhly Grass:

• Soil Check: Allow the top 2–3 inches to dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: Too much water can reduce blooming and cause root rot.
• Mulch: Use gravel or bark mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds.