Molinia caerulea

Purple Moor Grass
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

Average mature size of 3' tall. Forms tufted clumps. Strictly clumping, producing a low mound of basal foliage.

Native Range

Heaths, moors, bogs, and lake shores in the British Isles, Europe, and Asia.

Flower and Fruit Details

Flowers are purple, spikelets, has minimal flowering in hot, dry summers.

Leaf and Bark Features

Leaves are green to bluish-green, 0.375" wide. Fall color golden yellow, then reddish brown, then tan.

Culture and Care

Best in moist, acid soils in full sun, but grows in low fertility or alkaline soil. Best growth in moist, cool summers. Propagate by seed or division in spring. Zones 4-9.

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA

The following taxa are (or were) represented in the collections at Boone County Arboretum. Additional taxa may be available in the trade that are not included here.

  • Molinia caerulea // Purple Moor Grass ("straight species")
    Grass.
    Bed 172