Overview
Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer' is a clump forming, tufted grass like in the genus Molinia, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 1-1.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and neutral and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental grass and wildlife garden.
About
Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer' is a clump-forming, tufted grass cultivar known as purple moor-grass 'Skyracer'. This deciduous grass grows to a height of 1.5 to 2.5 metres with a spread of 1 to 1.5 metres, reaching full size within 2 to 5 years. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and is adaptable to various soil types including clay, loam, and sand, preferring moist but well-drained conditions with neutral to acidic pH. 'Skyracer' is suitable for all garden aspects and exposures, providing seasonal interest through summer and autumn.
About the genus
Molinia, or moor grass, is a genus of two species of flowering plants in the grass family, native to damp moorland in Eurasia and northern Africa. They are both herbaceous perennial grasses.
Wikipedia contributors, "Molinia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Molinia
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Molinia
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Neutral, Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing, North-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Clump forming, Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Spread
- 1-1.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental grass, wildlife garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer'
- Propagation
- Division, seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer'?
Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer' need?
Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers neutral and acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer' grow?
Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer' reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 1-1.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer' hardy in the UK?
Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer'?
Division, seed.
More in the Molinia genus
- Molinia caerulea 'Black Arrows'Purple Moor-grass
- Molinia caerulea 'Heidebraut'Purple Moor-grass
- Molinia caerulea 'Karl Foerster'Purple Moor-grass
- Molinia caerulea 'Moorhexe'Purple Moor-Grass
- Molinia caerulea 'Poul Petersen'Purple Moor-grass
- Molinia caerulea 'Transparent'
- Molinia altissimaMoor Grass
Last updated