Ruby Grass / Pink Crystals (Melinis nerviglumis) is a perennial grass native to southern US states (such as Florida and Texas) and has also been successfully introduced across North America as a non-invasive ornamental conservation grass that can thrive in USDA Zones 8–11. Reaching a mature height of 1.5–2 feet with a dense, tufted bunching growth habit, it features narrow, blue-green leaves and produces silky, ruby-pink to iridescent silver-white feathery seed panicles. It thrives in dry, sandy or well-drained loamy soils in full sun and is ideal for highway landscape stabilization, warm-season soil cover, and wind erosion control.
Warm season, short-lived bunchgrass that may be perennial or annual depending upon growing conditions. Establishes easily and quickly on coarse, well-drained soils, and is very drought tolerant. Provides good forage to livestock. Its pink cottony inflorescence makes it attractive as an ornamental species.
Species Attributes
Seeds Per lb
Growing Region
Southeast, Southwest
Native
Introduced
Life Form
Grass
Life Cycle
Annual, Perennial
Light Requirements
Sun
Precipitation Requirements
Low
Mature Height
0-1 ft
Flowering Season
Cool/Warm Season
Warm
Bloat/Non-Bloat
Bloom Color
Bunch/Sod
Bunch
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