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Description
Molinia Caerulea, also known as Purple Moor Grass, is a perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and commonly found in moist meadows, heaths, and peat bogs. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, forming clumps of narrow leaves with a blue-green color. It produces delicate, purple-tinted panicles in late spring and early summer that last until fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Molinia |
Appearance
Molinia Caerulea has a clumping growth habit with erect, narrow leaves that grow up to 2 feet long and 1/4 inch wide. The leaves are blue-green in color and have a slightly rough texture. In late spring and early summer, the plant produces delicate, purple-tinted panicles that rise above the foliage and can reach up to 3 feet tall. The panicles last until fall and gradually turn a straw-like color.
Care Guide
Molinia Caerulea is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and can tolerate drought once established. Here are some care tips to ensure the best growth and health of your Molinia Caerulea:
Water: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Afterward, water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
Soil: Molinia Caerulea prefers moist, well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5.
Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade for best growth and flowering.
Hardiness Zones: Molinia Caerulea is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Molinia Caerulea is generally pest and disease-free, but it may be susceptible to rust, leaf spots, and crown rot if grown in poorly drained soil. To prevent these issues, make sure to plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. If you notice any signs of disease, remove affected leaves and stems and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Molinia Caerulea is native to Europe and Asia and commonly found in moist meadows, heaths, and peat bogs. It grows well in moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Molinia Caerulea?
A: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Afterward, water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Is Molinia Caerulea susceptible to pests and diseases?
A: Molinia Caerulea is generally pest and disease-free, but it may be susceptible to rust, leaf spots, and crown rot if grown in poorly drained soil.
Q: What is the optimal pH level for Molinia Caerulea?
A: Molinia Caerulea prefers moist, well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Molinia Caerulea?
A: Molinia Caerulea is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Related Plants
- Molinia Caerulea ‘Variegata’
- Molinia Caerulea subsp. arundinacea
- Molinia Caerulea ‘Heidebraut’
References
- “Molinia caerulea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b560.
- “Molinia caerulea.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/545/.
- “Molinia caerulea.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19156/Molinia-caerulea/Details.
