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Description
Molinia Caerulea Variegata, commonly known as Variegated Purple Moor Grass, is a perennial grass that is native to Europe. It is a member of the Poaceae family, and it grows up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The plant produces panicles of purple flowers that bloom in late summer, and its leaves have a variegated cream and green coloration that adds visual interest to any garden. Molinia Caerulea Variegata is a hardy and versatile plant that can be grown in a variety of soil types and is suitable for garden borders, meadows, and rock gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Molinia |
Appearance
The Molinia Caerulea Variegata has a clump-forming habit and produces upright stems that are stiff and slender. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, measuring up to 1/4 inch wide and up to 18 inches long. The leaves are variegated with cream and green stripes, which gives the plant a striking appearance. In the late summer, the plant produces panicles of purple flowers that rise above the foliage and last for several weeks. The flowers are followed by seed heads that provide winter interest to the garden.
Care Guide
Molinia Caerulea Variegata is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in a wide range of soil types. Here is a brief care guide:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly during dry periods.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but it can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: Molinia Caerulea Variegata prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Molinia Caerulea Variegata is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Molinia Caerulea Variegata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot, which can be controlled with fungicides if necessary.
Habitat
Molinia Caerulea Variegata is native to Europe and is commonly found in wet meadows, bogs, and heathlands. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate periodic flooding. The plant is also suitable for garden borders, meadows, and rock gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Molinia Caerulea Variegata drought tolerant?
A: Molinia Caerulea Variegata prefers moist soil and is not drought tolerant. It should be watered regularly during dry periods.
Q: Can Molinia Caerulea Variegata be grown in containers?
A: Molinia Caerulea Variegata can be grown in containers, but it prefers to be planted in the ground where it has room to spread.
Q: Does Molinia Caerulea Variegata require full sun?
A: Molinia Caerulea Variegata prefers full sun to partial shade.
Q: When should Molinia Caerulea Variegata be pruned?
A: Molinia Caerulea Variegata does not require frequent pruning. The plant can be trimmed back in the spring to remove any dead or damaged foliage.
Related Plants
- Molinia caerulea ‘Edith Dudszus’
- Molinia caerulea ‘Skyracer’
- Molinia caerulea ‘Windspiel’
References
- ‘Molinia caerulea variegata.’ Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c130. Accessed 12 Aug. 2021.
- ‘Molinia caerulea variegata.’ Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/102153/Molinia-caerulea-Variegata/Details. Accessed 12 Aug. 2021.
- ‘Molinia caerulea variegata.’ Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/3319/variegated-purple-moor-grass/. Accessed 12 Aug. 2021.
