When we announced our plans to move to Florida from Ohio a few years ago, folks up North seemed to have one major objection: “Oh, won’t you miss the changing seasons?” Ive always been of the opinion that the seasons in Ohio are a) Almost Winter, b) Winter, c) Still Winter, and d) Road Construction, so it really wasn’t a major concern for me.
The thing is, though, that we do have seasons here in Central Florida. They just fade so gradually into one another that you might not notice if you’re not paying attention. If you’re familiar with the local flora and fauna, however, seasonal changes are definitely noticeable.
Nothing says fall in Florida to me like the color of Muhly Grass. This Florida native shows muted shades of green most of the year, but in October, feathery purple fronds thrust themselves high above the normal foliage, catching the afternoon sun and putting on a spectacular show.
Muhly Grass is one of those native plants that ought to be more widely available. It’s similar to non-native fountain grasses available at most nurseries, but even easier to grow. It also has the great benefit of being salt-tolerant, so it can be used on water-front properties. When Clearwater Beach landscaped the beachfront area last year, they used Muhly Grass extensively and to good effect.
When kids come to Trick or Treat at my house next week, they’ll come up a path lined with Muhly Grass. They won’t see the purple plumes in the dark, but I’ll know they’re there – a sure sign of fall in a state where seasonal change is subtle, but certain.
