Melinis nerviglumis (Ruby Grass)

Noted for its shining pink inflorescences, Melinis nerviglumis (Ruby Grass) is a tender perennial grass, often grown as an annual, forming a dense, mounded clump of erect to arching, narrow blue-green leaves. The foliage turns attractive shades of purple-red in the fall. In summer to early fall, fuzzy ruby pink flower heads, up to 6 in. long (15 cm), covered with iridescent silky hairs are borne atop the stems. They sway in the breeze, often dangling on the arching stems for a very graceful display. They gradually fade to silvery or white as the season progresses. This African native grass is a warm season grass that performs best in hot conditions. Once established, it needs little attention. A charming addition to beds and borders, rock gardens or containers. Effective when planted in large swathes.

• Grows up to 18-24 in. tall (45-60 cm) and 15 in. wide (37 cm). May reseed in the garden.
• Welcomed in any garden style, it is versatile and can be used as a specimen plant, in groups or en masse. It is ideal in borders where it provides texture, color and contrast. Great choice for containers, small gardens or rock gardens. Flowers are excellent for cutting, in fresh or dried arrangements.
• Performs best in full sun, in light, well-drained soils with consistent moisture.
• Sow seed directly in the garden after last frost date. Clumps can be dug in the fall before the first frost and potted up to overwinter in cool areas
• Native to Africa