Pine Muhly Grass

Plant Type: evergreen to semi-evergreen ornamental grass
Plant Height: 3–4 feet (foliage); up to 5 feet with bloom plumes
Spread: 2–3 feet
Flower Color: tan to light brown
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Pine Muhly (Muhlenbergia dubia): Fine-Textured Grass for Year-Round Structure

Pine Muhly is a durable ornamental grass with a soft, fine texture and upright form. Its name comes from its pine-needle-like foliage, which remains attractive throughout the year, while airy tan plumes add movement and seasonal interest in late summer and fall. Perfect for desert landscapes, it provides structure, texture, and low-water performance.

Key Features of Pine Muhly

• Fine-Textured Evergreen Foliage: Narrow, pine-like leaves create a delicate, graceful appearance.
• Seasonal Plumes: Produces airy, light brown seed heads in late summer through fall.
• Drought & Heat Tolerant: Thrives in low-water, full-sun landscapes.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and has no significant pest or disease issues.

Growing and Care Tips

Pine Muhly is highly adaptable and thrives in challenging conditions.

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: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring if needed.
Pruning: Cut back to 6–8 inches in late winter to encourage fresh spring growth.

Landscaping Uses

• Accent Plant: Adds vertical interest and fine texture to garden beds.
• Mass Plantings: Beautiful in drifts or naturalized areas.
• Erosion Control: Dense roots help stabilize soil on slopes.
• Mixed Plantings: Pairs well with flowering perennials and desert shrubs.

Summary

Pine Muhly offers a refined look with its soft foliage and graceful seed heads, while handling heat, drought, and poor soils with ease. It’s an excellent choice for adding movement and texture to Arizona’s water-wise gardens.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Pine Muhly

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for best foliage density and bloom.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soils preferred.
Spacing: Plant 2–3 feet apart for mass plantings.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not required—naturally sturdy growth habit.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

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

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically 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 base.
Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One for small clumps; two for mature plants.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase slightly in extended heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Pine Muhly:

• Soil Check: Let top 3 inches dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: This plant prefers dry intervals.
• Mulch: Use gravel mulch to conserve moisture and complement its fine texture.