Muhlenbergia rigens
Deer Grass
Description
The Deer Grass is a warm season perennial that forms dense clumps from the base. The spike-like flower stalks grow 3' tall and this grass has striking foundation form. The Deer Grass is native to California and needs watering once or twice a month after it has been established. The more water it has, the greener it is.
Maintenance Tips
Muhlenbergia rigens is a dense grass with a dome-shaped structure arching in all directions. It is commonly referred to as Deergrass. The foliage can reach 3' tall and 5' wide with flower blooms that emerge in the spring and summer 18" above the foliage. This grass requires almost no maintenance if it is planted in its ideal conditions. A sunny location, well-drained soil, and the space to reach its mature size will ensure that it thrives without having to prune for size or shape. It is common to cut back perennial grasses very hard in the winter to prune off the old spent flowers. If you are planning on winter pruning, it is best to wait until you see some new foliage emerge so the newly emerging leaves can cover the cuts quickly.
Plant Type
Grass
Height Range
1-3'
Flower Color
White
Flower Season
Spring, Summer
Leaf Color
Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Fast
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Rich, Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Japanese, Meadow, Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Spanish, Wild Garden, Woodland
Accenting Features
Unusual Foliage
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Background, Foundation, Parking Strip, Patio, Park, Parking Lot, Raised Planter, Swimming Pool, Walkways, With Rocks
Special Uses
Erosion Control, Mass Planting, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.