Water
Water new plants regularly until established. Mature plants are drought-tolerant and require minimal supplemental watering, especially in regions with adequate rainfall.
Also known as Hairy-Awn Muhly · Long-Awn Hairgrass · Purple Grass
Hairawn Muhly (Muhlenbergia capillaris) is a stunning ornamental grass known for its airy, pink to purplish flower plumes that appear in fall.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade.
80% intensity
Full sun is ideal for best flowering and growth.
Low to moderate. Drought-tolerant once established.
30% intensity
Water regularly during establishment; infrequent watering for mature plants.
Adaptable to a wide range of well-drained soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. Tolerates poor soil conditions.
50% intensity
Prefers moderate temperatures.
60% intensity
Thrives in USDA zones 6-9; tolerates heat and some cold.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low requirement.
20% intensity
Fertilize lightly in spring only if soil is poor.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water new plants regularly until established. Mature plants are drought-tolerant and require minimal supplemental watering, especially in regions with adequate rainfall.
Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. This removes dead material and encourages vigorous new growth. Avoid pruning in fall or winter to enjoy the dried plumes.
Easily propagated by division in early spring. Seeds can be sown in spring, but division is more common for maintaining desirable cultivars and ensuring faster establishment.
For container-grown plants, repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger and use a well-draining potting mix. This prevents the plant from becoming root-bound and maintains vigor.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Hairawn Muhly (Muhlenbergia capillaris)
Where Hairawn Muhly (Muhlenbergia capillaris) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Muhlenbergia |
| Species | Muhlenbergia capillaris |
Similar in genus Muhlenbergia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data