Melinis nerviglumis 'Savannah' – a unique ornamental grass with soft, pink plumes

Melinis nerviglumis 'Savannah', also known as Pink Diamond Grass or Ruby Grass, is a particularly graceful and exotic-looking ornamental grass that has become incredibly popular in a short time. With its silvery-green leaves and striking pink plumes, this grass makes an airy, refined addition to borders, pots, prairie plantings, and modern gardens.

The soft flower plumes change color from deep pink to silvery white throughout the season, creating a dynamic and ever-changing display. The grass glows beautifully in the evening sun, making it a real eye-catcher in the garden. 'Savannah' combines elegance, airiness, and a long flowering period – ideal for both naturalistic plantings and formal gardens.

Characteristics of Melinis nerviglumis 'Savannah'

• Dutch name: Pink diamond grass / Ruby grass

• Height: 30–50 cm

• Flowering period: June – October

• Feather color: pink → silvery white with age

• Leaf: narrow, blue-green, gracefully overhanging

• Plant type: semi-hardy ornamental grass

'Savannah' forms compact clumps with fine, graceful stalks. The flower clusters appear early in the season and remain attractive well into autumn. Even when dried, they retain their delicate texture, making them a favorite for dried bouquets, flower arrangements, and cut-flower gardens.

Location and care

Melinis nerviglumis loves warmth and sun and therefore feels very much at home in dry and sunny borders.

Best growing conditions:

• Location: sunny (preferably at least 6 hours of sun per day)

• Soil: well-drained, light and nutritious

• Water: moderate – better a little too dry than too wet

• Frost sensitivity: semi-hardy; protection recommended in severe winters

Tip: This ornamental grass looks particularly good in pots. Use airy potting soil and ensure excess water can drain well. As a container plant, it's easy to overwinter in a bright, frost-free spot.

Application in garden and border

Melinis nerviglumis 'Savannah' is versatile and fits perfectly into both modern and natural planting styles.

Beautiful combinations include:

• Cosmea, Zinnia & Verbena bonariensis – for a soft, romantic border

• Echinacea or Rudbeckia – color contrast with a warm late summer touch

• Salvia and Gaura – airy, playful and attractive

• Ornamental grasses such as Pennisetum or Stipa tenuissima – for a wavy, natural prairie planting

In a pot on a patio or balcony, Ruby Grass instantly creates a pleasant atmosphere. Its plumes sway elegantly in the wind and can also be used indoors as dried flowers.

Why choose Melinis nerviglumis 'Savannah'?

✔ Elegant pink plumes – eye-catching and atmospheric in any garden
✔ Long flowering period from summer until late autumn
✔ Compact growth habit, ideal for pots and small gardens
✔ Perfect for modern borders, prairie style and cutting gardens
✔ Also suitable as dried flowers for natural bouquets
✔ Low maintenance & loved by landscapers