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Deer Grass

Muhlenbergia rigens

Details & Attributes


Plant Type(s) Perennial bunchgrass
Native to Arizona Yes!
Water Needs Moderate
Sun Full sun, partial shade
Pollinators Wind Pollinated
Has Spines No
Size
In relative feet, width by height
4' × 4'
Freeze Tolerant Yes
Flowering Season July-October
Flower Color Cream-pink
Minimum Temperature Range 0-10 °F
Leaf Description Very long and narrow
Fruit Inconspicuous.
Longevity
In years
15
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Range Map View SEINet Range Map
Elevation Range 3000-8500 ft.
Description This is one of Arizona's most spectacular grasses. Its usual habitat in the wild is in the bottom of mountain washes in the oak/juniper belt. With a little shade and some supplemental water it can perform quite well even in arid desert gardens. When moderately watered this grass is usually less than 3 feet tall, but in good conditions can reach 4 feet.