Origin and Common Names
Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin, commonly known as cinnamon muhly, is a species of grass belonging to the family Poaceae. This perennial herbaceous plant is native to the central and eastern regions of North America, from the Great Plains to the Atlantic coast. It can be found growing in prairies, savannas, and open woods. The species is commonly referred to as Muhly grass.General Appearance
Cinnamon muhly is a clump-forming, warm-season grass that typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet and a similar width. It has a dense, finely textured bunch of slender leaves that are green or bluish-green and up to 1/8 inch wide. The leaves emerge from a central crown, curving inward near the base, and arching outwards near the tip. In fall, the grass produces narrow panicles that are 2-4 inches long and reddish-bronze in color, fading to a pale yellow as the season progresses. The panicles feature tightly clustered, spike-like individual flowers that are cylindrical and fluffy in appearance.Uses
Cinnamon muhly is a popular ornamental grass that is widely used in landscaping for its attractive foliage and flowers. It is drought-tolerant and grows well in full sun to part shade, making it a great choice for gardens, borders, and naturalized areas. It is often planted in mass as ground cover or in mixed borders with other native grasses and wildflowers. The grass is also an important component of prairie ecosystems, providing food and cover for birds, small mammals, and other wildlife. It is considered a valuable forage grass for livestock and wildlife, with good palatability, digestibility, and protein content. Additionally, the grass has been used medicinally by Native American tribes for various ailments, including fever, colds, and throat infections.Light Requirements:
Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin thrive in full sun exposure. They require a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight a day for optimum growth. Lack of sun exposure can cause stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements:
These plants are adaptable to a wide range of temperatures, from low temperatures ranging between 10- 15 degree Celsius to high temperatures of 25-30 degrees Celsius. They can tolerate heat and drought and have a high tolerance for dry air as well as humidity. Nevertheless, they require a long growing season of approximately 4 months to reach maximum height and produce flowers.
Soil Requirements:
Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin thrives in well-drained soils but can tolerate dry, even rocky soils. Soil pH should be in the range of 5.5- 7.5. They also need a good amount of organic matter to aid in water retention as well as nutrient absorption. Nitrogen-rich soils tend to promote lush green growth and may delay flowering and seed development. Therefore, it is essential to balance fertilizer applications as needed to promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods for Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin
Muhlenbergia racemosa var. cinnoides is a warm-season grass native to the southern and central regions of the United States and Mexico. It is a relatively low maintenance plant that is easy to cultivate.
The plant grows well in a range of soil types, from sandy loam to well-draining clay soil. It can also tolerate different soil pH levels, ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. The grass prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
If you are planting the grass from seed, it is best to sow in the spring, after the threat of frost has passed. You can also propagate Muhlenbergia racemosa var. cinnoides from divisions taken from established plants.
Watering Needs for Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin
Once established, Muhlenbergia racemosa var. cinnoides is fairly drought tolerant. It can go without water for a few weeks, as long as it is not a prolonged drought. A general rule of thumb is to water the grass when the top 2-3 inches of soil have dried out. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
While the grass is establishing, however, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist. Water every 2-3 days until the grass has rooted and started to grow.
Fertilization for Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin
Muhlenbergia racemosa var. cinnoides does not require much fertilization to thrive. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring, following the package instructions, is sufficient. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive leaf growth and a weak root system.
Pruning for Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin
Muhlenbergia racemosa var. cinnoides does not require regular pruning. However, if you want to prevent the grass from reseeding or to maintain a certain size and shape, you can cut back the plant to a few inches above the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
If you are growing the grass as a part of a mixed border, pruning it back to half its size in summer can promote fuller growth and reduce the likelihood of the plant flopping over.
Propagation of Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin
Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin can be propagated through four different methods:
1. Seeds
The seeds of Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin can be collected from the plant when the flower heads dry out and turn brown. The seeds can be stored in a dry place until they are ready for planting, or they can be planted immediately. To plant the seeds, scatter them on prepared soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil regularly to keep it moist, and the seedlings will emerge in 2-3 weeks.
2. Division
Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin can be propagated through division in early spring or fall by digging up a mature clump of the plant and separating it into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy root system. Replant the divided sections in a well-prepared soil with adequate sun, air, and moisture.
3. Cuttings
Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin can also be propagated through cuttings taken from mature plants in late spring or early summer. Cut off 4-6 inches of stem with a few leaves attached. Remove the lower leaves and dip the basal end in rooting hormone powder. Insert the cutting into prepared soil, water it, and maintain high humidity around the cutting by covering it with a plastic bag. The roots will form within 2-3 weeks.
4. Transplanting
Mature Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin plants can be transplanted in early spring or fall to a new location with suitable soil, sunlight, and moisture. Dig up the entire plant with its root system intact, and replant it in the new location at the same soil depth as before.
Disease Management
Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin is generally a healthy plant and not prone to many diseases. However, it may sometimes suffer from certain diseases:
- Leaf spot: This can occur due to humid environmental conditions or overwatering. To manage it, remove and destroy the infected leaves. Maintain proper soil drainage and avoid overhead watering.
- Fusarium blight: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots and stems of the plant, eventually causing wilting and death. Manage it by avoiding overhead watering, improving soil drainage, and using sterilized soil. Remove and destroy infected plants.
- Powdery mildew: This can appear a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems that eventually leads to wilting. Remove and destroy the infected areas and increase air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering and ensure adequate sunlight.
- Root rot: This can occur due to excess water or poorly-drained soil. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and eventual death of the plant. Improve soil drainage, reduce watering, and opt for well-draining potting soil to manage it.
Pest Management
Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B.S.P. var. cinnoides (Link) Boivin can also be affected by certain pests. Here are some common ones and ways to manage them:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing. Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off or consider using an insecticidal soap.
- Grasshoppers: These pests can cause significant damage to the plant by chewing on the leaves and stems. Use physical barriers to keep them out and consider using a natural repellent like neem oil.
- Leafhoppers: These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing wilting and yellowing of leaves. Use a natural insecticidal spray or try introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to manage them.
