Purple Moor Grass (Molina caerulea)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Ornamental Grass

Purple Moor Grass
Molina caerulea

Purple Moor Grass <em>Molina caerulea</em>
Purple Moor Grass Molina caerulea
 
Features

Upright arching light green foliage forming neat mounds. Flowers are yellow-purple combination appearing in June-July. In late fall flowers break off at the base. One of the few grasses that cleans itself of last season's foliage.

This is a clumping, warm season grass.

 
 
Culture
Prefers moist, fertile soil in a cool location. Sun to partial shade. Tolerates low fertility and will not grow in dry locations. 
 
Cultivars

'Variegata' 2-3' green and white striped leaves

'Skyracer' 6-8' tall, upright, blue-foliage

 
 
Mature Height
2-4 Feet
 
Size
 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
4 - 9 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
Variegated
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

This grass is one of the slowest to establish. May take 3-4 years before it blooms.

 
Additional Notes

Moor grass is considered to be one of the better landscape grasses for American gardens.

Useful as an accent and planted in masses.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic