Purple Grass
Muhlenbergia capillaris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–36" H × 24"–36" W
Bloom
Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Purple grass is an elegant native ornamental grass that forms neat clumps with fine-textured foliage. In late summer and fall, it produces stunning clouds of pink to purple flower plumes that create a soft, airy display above the green leaves.
In an HOA neighborhood
Purple Grass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- May look sparse in winter after cutting back
Wildlife value
The showy fall blooms attract bees, butterflies, and moths during their peak flowering period. Seeds provide food for birds through winter months.
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 Purple Grass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.