Muhlenbergia Setifolia

Description

Muhlenbergia Setifolia is a warm-season grass that is native to the United States. It is commonly known as the Coastal Muhly or Gulf Muhly, and it belongs to the Poaceae family. This perennial plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide, and it has a symmetrical, clumping growth habit that makes it a popular choice in landscaping. The plant produces long, narrow leaves that are green or bluish-green, and it produces fluffy, pink or purple flowers in the fall that transform into bronze-colored seed heads in the winter.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Coastal Muhly is a beautiful grass that adds texture and movement to any landscape. Its long, narrow leaves can grow up to 2 feet long, and they are usually green or bluish-green. The plant produces fluffy, pink or purple flowers in the fall that can reach up to 3 feet tall. These flowers transform into bronze-colored seed heads in the winter, which can last well into the spring. The Coastal Muhly has a symmetrical, clumping growth habit that makes it a popular choice in landscaping, and it can be grown in containers or in large groups.

Care Guide

The Coastal Muhly is an easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to thrive. Here are some care tips:

• Water: The Coastal Muhly prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.
• Soil: The Coastal Muhly prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
• Sunlight: The Coastal Muhly prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
• Hardiness Zones: The Coastal Muhly is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Coastal Muhly is a relatively pest and disease-free plant, but it can be susceptible to some issues. Here are some common pests and diseases:

• Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. Remove infected leaves and improve air circulation to prevent the spread of the disease.
• Grasshoppers: These pests can eat the leaves of the plant and cause damage. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control grasshoppers.
• Spider mites: These pests can cause damage to the leaves of the plant. Spray the plant with water to dislodge spider mites, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.

Habitat

The Coastal Muhly is native to the United States and can be found in coastal areas from Florida to Texas. It grows in sandy or gravelly soils in coastal plains, dunes, and beaches, and it can tolerate salt spray and saltwater flooding. The plant is also drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Can the Coastal Muhly be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Coastal Muhly can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes.

Q: Does the Coastal Muhly attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers and seed heads can attract birds and other wildlife.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Coastal Muhly?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.

Q: Can the Coastal Muhly tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate salt spray and saltwater flooding.

Related Plants

• Muhlenbergia Capillaris
• Muhlenbergia Dubia
• Muhlenbergia Filipes
• Muhlenbergia Rigens

References

• Horticulture Magazine. “Coastal Muhly.” Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.hortmag.com/plants/plants-we-love/coastal-muhly.
• Missouri Botanical Garden. “Muhlenbergia Setifolia.” Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281231.
• University of Florida IFAS Extension. “Muhlenbergia Setifolia.” Accessed August 16, 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP130.