Alkali Muhly
Muhlenbergia asperifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 8"–16" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, IA and 25 more states
Pollinators
bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Alkali sacaton is a fine-textured native bunch grass that forms compact clumps with delicate, airy seed heads. This drought-tolerant perennial thrives in alkaline soils and requires minimal water once established. It produces feathery plumes from summer through early fall that add graceful movement to the landscape.
In an HOA neighborhood
Alkali Muhly is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The seeds provide food for birds and small wildlife. Summer blooms attract bees and other pollinators.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Alkali Muhly fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.