Gulf Muhly is in full bloom right now in Austin and the Dripping Springs, Hill Country area. Just about anywhere you drive right now you see the pink poofs on the grass. The Gulf Muhly is a wonderful Texas native grass that takes our hot summers but also make it through our crazy winters.
The Gulf Muhly gets about 3 feet by 3 feet and prefers full sun if not half a day of the afternoon sun. They are fall bloomers and will go dormant in the winter. Most people will cut them back sometime in February in preparation for the spring, this gives them a nice full look but if you are not into maintenance, you can just let them be.
‘White Cloud’ Muhly
There is a popular Muhly that looks similar to the Gulf only it has white poofs- the ‘White Cloud’. This is a Texas native as well and resembles the Gulf, but it has white plumes.
Both make great additions to the landscape when planted in mass or planted as borders. However, the application, they are an excellent choice for a drought-tolerant bed or landscape. There are several types of ornamental grasses that add height, texture, and movement you can plant depending on the overall look you are going for.
Alternatives to the Gulf Muhly and the ‘White Cloud’ are the Big Muhly, and the Bamboo Muhly as well as smaller grasses like the Mexican Feather Grass and the Ruby Crystals. Grasses for the most part are low-maintenance additions to the landscape and there are many options out there. If you are looking for something with darker foliage for instance you can plant the Purple Fountain Grass, just know that here in Austin that isn’t always cold hardy.
