Purple Moor Grass

Molinia caerulea (Poaceae) is a deciduous perennial grass native to Europe, the Mediterranean, and western Asia to Kazakhstan. It forms clumps 2 to 4 feet tall and wide, producing narrow purplish panicles on slender yellow stems in midsummer. The inflorescences are held well above the foliage and create a transparent, airy effect. Foliage fades to tawny yellow in autumn.

Purple moor grass grows in full sun to part shade on moist to well-drained soils (pH 6.0 to 8.0). It is slow to establish but long-lived and low maintenance once settled. Cut down in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. The cultivar 'Variegata' has cream-striped leaves, and 'Moorflamme' offers strong fall color. The dried seed heads attract songbirds. Hardy in Zones 4a to 8b.