Molinia caerulea 'Variegata' - Variegated Purple Moor Grass

This lovely variegated form of purple moor grass prefers moist, rich, acid soil in light shade to full sun. In dry locations this grass prefers shade. This is a slow-growing plant which forms a beautiful "mop" of foliage in a few years. It requires virtually no care and will happily grow in the same spot for many years.

Molinia caerulea can tolerate some alkalinity, but at the cost of not looking its best.

The flower heads are tall, narrow, bronze to gold and are good for dried arrangements.

Best planted 30 cm (12") apart and are very effective planted in groups of three or more.

Description: cool season; clump forming
Foliage is cream-colored with green stripe; blade width is medium; 30-50 cm (12-20") in height
Flowers are purplish; blooms Sept to frost; 50-80 cm (20-32") tall

Coldest Zone: 4 (find your zone; further info on plant hardiness)

Ideal conditions: full sun in cool climates; needs ample water and shade in hot dry locations; likes moist, fertile, acid soil

Partner with: Hostas, Rhododendrons and other acid-lovers

Season of interest: June to winter

Drought tolerance rating: 2 (water to root depth once a week) further info

Recommended spacing between plants: 60-100cm (12-24")

Pronunciation: Molina (moh-LIN-ee-ah) caerulea (ser-OO-lee-ah) variegata (ver-ee-uh-GAH-tah)

Sizes available: gallon-size field clumps; flat of 25 plugs
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More ornamental grasses

Compare Molinia caerulea 'Variegata' to our other grasses in this handy chart.