Muhlenbergia 'Undaunted'

Muhlenbergia reverchonii 'Undaunted': Resilient Beauty with a Rosy Glow

Tough yet undeniably elegant, Muhlenbergia 'Undaunted' brings the same ethereal charm as Pink Muhly Grass but with improved cold hardiness and adaptability. This native selection forms a dense clump of fine, blue-green foliage that stays tidy all season, then erupts in a mist of airy, rose-pink plumes from late summer into fall. The soft, upright flower panicles float above the foliage like a blush of sunset haze—adding motion, texture, and warmth to low-maintenance plantings. True to its name, it thrives in heat, cold, drought, and lean soils with graceful composure.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 60–75 cm (foliage); 90–100 cm in flower
• Spread: 60–75 cm
• Flower Colour: Airy rose-pink
• Flowering Period: Late summer to mid fall
• Foliage: Fine blue-green blades; bronze tones in winter
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil; tolerates drought and poor fertility

Uses and Benefits: 'Undaunted' is perfect for dry borders, native gardens, xeriscapes, and mass plantings where dependable colour and texture are needed with minimal upkeep. Its fine foliage and late-season plumes soften bold compositions, offering contrast to broad-leaved perennials and flowering natives. Deer resistant, pollinator-friendly, and winter resilient, it's a standout in both rugged and refined designs.

Companion Plants: Pair Muhlenbergia 'Undaunted' with Aster 'Wood's Purple' for a rich, compact burst of lavender colour. Add Salvia nemorosa 'Bumbleblue' for spiky blue structure and long blooming power. Round it out with Coreopsis grandiflora 'Sterntaler', whose golden petals with burgundy centres echo the warmth of the grass’s late-season glow.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Water during establishment, then allow to dry between waterings—this grass prefers lean, dry conditions once mature. Avoid heavy, wet soil. Cut back in early spring to refresh growth. Division is rarely needed, but may be done in spring if necessary.

History: A cold-hardy selection of Muhlenbergia reverchonii, native to the southern Great Plains, 'Undaunted' was introduced by Plant Select for its resilience and ornamental merit. It brings native durability and late-season grace to gardens across a wide range of climates.

Final Thoughts: Soft, strong, and strikingly adaptable, Muhlenbergia 'Undaunted' proves that toughness and beauty can go hand in hand—lighting up fall with a haze of effortless charm.