It is easy to confuse this Bristle Leaved Red Top grass or Melinis Nerviglumis with the Natal Red Top if not for one thing:  the Natal Red Top grows in disturbed soil (a pioneer), while the Bristle-leaved red top is an indicator of undisturbed veld.

The bristle-leaved red top or Mountain Red Top Grass is a poor to average grazing grass – a consequence of having wiry, rolled leaves. What is loses in grazing value it more than makes up in attractiveness.  This showy grass is a lovely species for natural grass gardens.

Features:

• Leaves mostly at the base
• Usually in gravely soil
• Flowers fade from deep purple to white
• Can flower throughout the year
• A dense tufted grass