Overview

Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'JS Witches Broom' is a clump forming, tufted grass like in the genus Molinia, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'JS Witches Broom' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, coastal, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, patio and container plants, prairie planting, wildlife gardens, cut flowers and flower borders and beds.

About

Molinia caerulea, known by the common name purple moor-grass, is a species of grass that is native to Europe, west Asia, and north Africa. It grows in locations from the lowlands up to 2,300 m (7,546 ft) in the Alps.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Molinia

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing, North-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'JS Witches Broom' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Grass Like
Habit
Clump forming, Tufted
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens, Cut flowers, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'JS Witches Broom'

Propagation
Seed sown in pots in a cold frame in spring, Division in spring
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'JS Witches Broom'?

Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'JS Witches Broom' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'JS Witches Broom' need?

Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'JS Witches Broom' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'JS Witches Broom' hardy in the UK?

Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'JS Witches Broom' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'JS Witches Broom'?

Seed sown in pots in a cold frame in spring, Division in spring.

More in the Molinia genus

Browse all Molinia