Muhlenbergia rigens (Deer Grass)

Tidy and well-behaved, Muhlenbergia rigens (Deer Grass) is a warm-season perennial grass forming a dense clump of slender, pointed leaves, up to 3 ft. long (90 cm), ranging from bright green to pale silver-green. Upright at first, the leaves tend to arch as the season progresses, producing an attractive fountain-like effect. They bleach to a light straw color in the fall and remain great-looking in milder winters. Slender yellow or purplish flower spikes rise up to 5 ft. (150 cm) in the fall, creating a dramatic display. Fast-growing, Deer Grass can reach maturity from the seedling stage in two seasons and does not reseed easily. It provides bird food, nesting material, cover, and grazing for mammals. This ornamental grass is commonly called deer grass, but deer generally avoid it. Robust, heat and drought-tolerant, easy-care, this southwestern U.S. native is a great choice for water-wise and xeric gardens. Excellent as a single specimen or when massed in drifts. The flower stems were used by many Native American tribes for coiled baskets.

• Grows up to 3-5 ft. tall (90-150 cm) and 3-4 ft. wide (90-120 cm).
• Performs best in full sun or light shade, in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils. Tolerates a wide range of soils, including clay, as long as they are well-drained.
• Drought-tolerant. Adaptable, it does not need any supplementary water in summer once established. However, summer moisture keeps its bright green foliage fresh-looking.
• Most effective in mass plantings or groupings in prairies and meadows, native plant gardens, or naturalized areas. It can be used as a ground cover in dry spots or as a garden accent.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Muhlenbergia rigens attracts birds and butterflies but is deer-resistant.
• Cut back in late winter to early spring to encourage fresh new foliage to emerge.
• Propagate by seed. No treatment is necessary.
• Native to the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico.
• Drought-Tolerant Grasses That Turn Dry Gardens Into Drama

How It Compares With Other Muhly Grasses

Choose Lindheimer’s muhly when you want a bold, upright, silver-toned grass for hot, dry, limestone, or Texas-style gardens. Choose Pink Muhly Grass when the priority is dazzling fall color. Choose Deer Grass when you need a larger, naturalistic grass for dry slopes, habitat plantings, erosion control, or western native landscapes.