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James H. Schutte
Poaceae
Muhlenbergia rigens
Deer Grass
In dry, hot climates where exotic ornamental grasses present an invasiveness problem, this is a rare safe and outstanding variety for beds and borders. Native to the Southwest U.S. from California to Texas and into Mexico, this large perennial species is found on hillsides, canyons, open forests, and high elevations. The fine, light green leaves are narrow and densely gathered into a beautiful, symmetrical clump. They dry to a wheat-straw color in fall and hold up well under winter snow.
Deer grass blooms in summer with narrow whip-like spikes held to head-height in an almost transparent cloud. This grass is particularly attractive under creative night lighting and in conjunction with dry stream beds.
Grow deer grass in full sun to partial sun on well-drained to dry soil. It will look and bloom best with a little moisture. There is no better grass for wild gardens to lend the look of wilderness at homes both urban and rural. In dry conditions it is not invasive and it is adapted to long periods of drought from late spring through the end of fall.
12 - 1
7 - 11
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Grass
Full Sun, Partial Sun
0'-3' / 0.0m - 0.9m
Late Spring, Early Summer, Summer
Southwestern United States
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
Well Drained
Clay, Loam, Sand
Drought
Medium
Xeric/Desert, Drought Tolerant, Average Water
Clump-Forming
Summer, Fall
Showy
White
Brown
Green
No
Fine
Matte
Semi-Evergreen
Feature Plant, Foundation, Groundcover, Mixed Border, Wildflower
Yes
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