Location specific values:
Array
(
    [lat] => 34.782100
    [lng] => -82.303200
    [elevation] => 280.635
    [rainfall] => 1316.2422
    [cold_temperature] => -1
    [temperature] => 32.1525
    [user_eto] => 1174.14877032
)
Plant specific values:
Array
(
    [rain_min_irrigation] => 268
    [eto_corrected] => 1688
    [eto_adjusted_rain_min (rain_min_irrigation / eto_corrected)] => 0.15876777
)
Bush Muhly (Muhlenbergia porteri) | Easyscape Plant Profile

Bush Muhly

(Muhlenbergia porteri)

Bush Muhly (Muhlenbergia porteri)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Muhlenbergia porteri image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Climate Requirements for Mauldin, South Carolina

This Plant Your Site Plant Suitability for Your Location
Precipitation 5" - 47" 52" Aquatic Aquatic
High Temp. 72°F - 107°F 90°F Your summer temperatures are normal for this plant. Excellent
Low Temp. 16°F - 52°F 30°F Your winter temperatures are normal for this plant Excellent
This plant may not grow well at your location - your precipitation is too high.

Summary

Muhlenbergia porteri, commonly known as Bush Muhly or Porter’s Muhly, is a perennial bunchgrass native to desert grasslands, rocky slopes, and open woodlands in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is well-adapted to arid environments and often found in elevations from 1000 to 2500 meters. This grass typically grows wiry, knotted stems up to about 80 centimeters tall and forms dense clumps. The inflorescence is an open array of spreading, thread-thin branches bearing small, awned spikelets, which are most notable during its bloom period in May and June. The flowers are not particularly showy but add a delicate texture to the landscape.

Bush Muhly is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used for erosion control on slopes and in restoration projects. In cultivation, it requires full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While it does best with medium amounts of water, it can survive with less once established. Bush Muhly is not known for significant pest or disease problems, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to desert grasslands, rocky slopes, and open woodlands in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Porter’s Muhly

Scientific Names: Muhlenbergia porteri, Muhlenbergia texana, Podosemum porteri

GBIF Accepted Name: Muhlenbergia porteri Scribn.