Muhlenbergia rigens – Deer Grass

Bring bold structure and graceful movement to sunny landscapes with Deer Grass.

Muhlenbergia rigens is a warm-season perennial ornamental grass native to California and other parts of the southwestern United States and Mexico. Dense mounds of narrow green foliage create a strong architectural shape, while tall, slender flower stalks rise above the leaves in late summer and fall, maturing to warm golden-tan tones. Plant Deer Grass as a focal point among boulders or repeat its rounded clumps through a naturalistic border, where the flower stems can catch the afternoon light. Once established, it tolerates heat and periods of drought, making it a useful choice for low-water gardens with well-drained soil.

Key Features

• Plant type: Warm-season perennial ornamental grass
• California native with dense, arching green foliage
• Tall, slender flower spikes add height and movement
• Tolerates heat and periods of drought once established
• Useful for low-water gardens, mixed borders, and naturalistic mass plantings

Growing Details
Height: 3–4 ft. foliage; up to 5–6 ft. in bloom | Spread: 3–4 ft.
Exposure: Full sun to light shade | Water: Low once established; provide good drainage
Bloom time: Late summer through fall | Bloom color: Cream to tan, aging golden brown
USDA hardiness zones: 7–11