About
Clump-forming deciduous grass to 2.1m in height with narrow, linear lime green leaves. Slender, airy plumes of tiny dark purple flowers, on strong, graceful, gently curving stems, are held high above the foliage from summer to autumn. Stems and leaves turn honey-gold by late autumn.
About the genus
Molinia are deciduous perennial grasses, tufted in habit, with flat, linear leaves and erect stems bearing open flowering panicles in summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHNeutral, Acid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing, North-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeGrass Like
HabitClump forming, Tufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationWill grow in full sun or part shade in any moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, but prefers neutral to acidic soil. See ornamental grasses cultivation
PruningCut down dead foliage and old flowered stems, just before growth commences in spring
PropagationPropagate bydivision in spring. Pot up until established
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free