Big muhly facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Big muhly |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Muhlenbergia
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| Species: |
lindheimeri
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Muhlenbergia lindheimeri is a type of grass that grows in clumps. It can reach 3 to 6 feet (about 1 to 2 meters) tall. People often call it big muhly, blue muhly, or Lindheimer's muhly. This grass is native to North America. You can find it growing naturally in northern Mexico and the Edwards Plateau area of Texas. It is also a popular plant for gardens. Big muhly is useful because it can act like a living fence, help stop soil from washing away, hold water in the ground, and provide nesting material for many birds.
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What is Big Muhly?
Big muhly is a perennial grass, meaning it lives for many years. It grows in clumps with straight stems that can reach up to 1.5 meters (about 5 feet) tall.
How Does it Look?
The leaves of big muhly can be up to 55 centimeters (about 22 inches) long. They can be flat or folded. At the base of each leaf, where it meets the stem, there is a small flap called a ligule, which can be up to 3.5 centimeters long. The flowers grow in a large, branching cluster called a panicle, which can be up to 50 centimeters (about 20 inches) long. These flower clusters are often purplish and have small, grayish flower parts called spikelets.
Where Does it Grow?
In the wild, big muhly prefers to grow in soils that are rich in lime or calcium. It is found in its natural habitat across northern Mexico and in the Edwards Plateau region of Texas.
Why is it Important?
Big muhly has several important uses, both in nature and for people.
Uses in Nature
This grass provides food for animals like cattle and horses. However, it's not their favorite food because it can be tough and stringy. It also helps prevent soil erosion and provides shelter and nesting material for birds.
Uses for People
Many people plant big muhly in their gardens as an ornamental grass. It's a great choice for landscaping because it looks good and is easy to care for. There are even special types of big muhly grown for gardens, such as a variety called 'Autumn Glow'.
