Landscape Uses
Style Tags
South Florida Growing Guide
Light Requirements
Water Requirements
Once established (12–18 months), Muhly Grass is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Extremely drought tolerant — one of the lowest water-demand plants in South Florida. Irrigation only during establishment (3-6 months). After establishment, zero supplemental irrigation typically needed. Overwatering causes disease and loss of form.
Soil and Fertilization
Fertilizer: Low-phosphorus native plant fertilizer or none
Schedule: Light native fertilizer in February if desired — often unnecessary.
Salt Tolerance
- Mature Height
- 2–4 ft
- Mature Width
- 2–4 ft
- Growth Rate
- medium
- Water Demand
- 1/10
- Florida Grade
- Florida
- Installed Cost
- $
- USDA Zones
- 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11
- FLEPPC Status
- None
- Iguana Rating
- 8/10
Where to Buy in South Florida
Find Muhly Grass at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Muhly Grass grow in South Florida?
Muhly Grass has a medium growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.
Is Muhly Grass safe for pets?
Yes, Muhly Grass is considered pet-safe. Non-toxic. Native grass — no concerns.
How much water does Muhly Grass need in South Florida?
Low water needs (1/10). Once established (12–18 months), Muhly Grass is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Can Muhly Grass tolerate salt air in South Florida?
Muhly Grass has moderate salt tolerance (6/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.
Is Muhly Grass available in Miami-Dade County?
In Miami-Dade County, Muhly Grass is classified as: protected. Florida native — HOA cannot prohibit.
County Availability in South Florida
Miami-Dade County
Florida native — HOA cannot prohibit. FFL program featured plant.
USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.
View County Guide →Broward County
Florida native — protected. FFL and native landscape standard.
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.
View County Guide →Palm Beach County
Native — protected. Median and right-of-way standard plant.
USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.
View County Guide →Collier County
Native — protected. Collier right-of-way and native landscape required.
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.
View County Guide →Monroe County
Native — protected. Good for Keys upland locations.
USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.
View County Guide →Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.
Need a Spec Sheet?
Export a client-ready PDF with Florida Grade specs, county legal status, maintenance schedule, and failure risks. Available to Professional subscribers.
Ask about Muhly Grass
Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.