Melinis nerviglumis is a species of grass known by the common names mountain red top or bristle-leaved red top.

The Latin name refers to the veined glume.

[2] It is native from tropical to southern Africa, the western Indian Ocean islands, and Indochina.

[2] It is cultivated as a garden ornamental due to its colourful purple flowers.

[3] The flowers are produced in summer and fade to white as they mature.