White Cloud Muhly Grass

A cloud of airy white plumes from late summer through fall — the ornamental grass that makes every garden look like it was designed by a professional.

White Cloud Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris 'White Cloud') is a native ornamental grass that produces an extraordinary display of fine, feathery white plumes from late summer through fall. The plumes are so airy and abundant they seem to float above the narrow, dark green foliage — creating a soft, billowing effect that catches light beautifully and moves gracefully in the breeze. It's drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, low-maintenance, and one of the most striking fall-interest plants you can grow.

What I love about it

White Cloud Muhly is the plant that makes people stop and ask what it is. The white plume display in September and October is genuinely spectacular — a soft, luminous cloud that glows in afternoon light and looks stunning against dark foliage, stone walls, or a blue sky. It's a native grass, which means it supports local wildlife and thrives in the conditions it evolved for: heat, drought, and poor soils. It requires almost no maintenance once established — just cut it back in late winter and watch it come back stronger every year. Mass plant it for maximum impact or use it as a specimen in a mixed border.

Plant Care Tips

• ☀️ Light: Full sun — 6–8 hours daily; essential for best plume production
• 💧 Water: Drought-tolerant once established; minimal water needs
• 🌡️ Temperature: Hardy to 0°F (Zone 6); heat and humidity tolerant
• 🪴 Difficulty: Very easy — one of the most low-maintenance ornamental grasses
• 🐾 Pet Safety: Non-toxic to cats and dogs
• ✂️ Pruning: Cut back to 4–6 inches in late winter before new growth emerges

Plant Specs

• Mature Size: 2–3 ft tall; 3–4 ft wide with plumes
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Bloom Time: Late summer through fall (white feathery plumes)
• Foliage: Fine, dark green; clumping habit
• Growing Zone: 6–9

Bloom bold. Be cheeky.