Melinis nerviglumis

Also Known As

Melinus nerviglumis
Melinus nerviglumis 'Pink Crystals'
Rhynchelytrum nerviglume
Rychelytrum neriglume
Pink Crystals Ruby Grass
Pink Crystals® Ruby Grass
Ruby Grass

Plant type

perennial, grass / grass like, annual / biennial

size

H: 20"-24"
W: 9"-18"

planting zones

8a-11

More Options

Melinis nerviglumis plant details

Melinis nerviglumis is a deciduous or semi-evergreen annual / biennial or perennial grass (or grassy in appearance) with blue, burgundy and green foliage. In fall and summer pink and tan flowers emerge. Features grassy texture. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and even moisture - low water. Does well in average and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Melinis nerviglumis

Plant type: annual / biennial or perennial grass (or grassy in appearance)
Plant family: poaceae
Foliage: deciduous or semi-evergreen blue, burgundy and green
Mature size: 9 IN - 18 IN - wide, 20 IN - 24 IN - tall
Flowers: pink and tan blooms in fall and summer
Uses: border plant, container plant, cutting garden, fall color, mass-planting

GROWING CONDITIONS for Melinis nerviglumis

USDA Zones: 8a - 11
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: even moisture - low
Resistant to: deer, verticillium wilt
Soil needs: average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Melinus nerviglumis ‘Pink Crystals’ is a short, tufted, evergreen perennial grass. Displays narrow, upright blue-green leaf blades topped with beautiful, airy pink seed plumes. Ornamental Grasses are low maintenance and grow well in most soil types. They look beautiful, adding color, height, and movement to your garden. Makes an excellent companion plant with contrasting foliage.

By: Little Prince of Oregon

This perennial grass from South Africa bears blue-green foliage that blushes ruby-red in cool temperatures and silky, irridescent ruby-pink flowers from May to December. A striking beauty to 12 inches tall with an equal spread, it grows well in sandy soils and is remarkably tolerant of coastal conditions. Plant in full sun and provide moderate water. Evergreen in mild climates, it is hardy to 20F. South Africa.

By: Native Sons

Astonishing soft ruby blooms spring through summer, can last into winter. Blue-green foliage turns red in fall. Reseeds to maintain clumps, can spread if allowed. Hardy to 28F.

By: Cactus Jungle

Many gardeners consider the shimmering heads of bright ruby and silver flowers the most beautiful new contribution to bedding or the border. It sparkles like champagne bubbles. Annual. Ordinary loam is best. Annual in USDA zones 4-6.

By: Plant Select®

Adorable fluffy goodness! This small, evergreen grass from South Africa makes the softest, prettiest blooms of any grass we grow! They’re 4-6”, soft, ruby-pink & very pleasing for all of you tactile types! This grass blooms through the summer & then turns red in the Fall. The rest of the year, the foliage is a soft grey-green. Clumps grow to 2’ high & wide so it should be a winning addition to perennial borders & smaller gardens. Hardy to 20 °F, this grass can also withstand periodic drought, though it will look better if it receives average water.