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 H7. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Suggested uses include coastal, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, prairie planting and wildlife gardens.
About
Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer' is a clump-forming, deciduous grass that reaches heights of 2.1 to 2.4 meters. It features slender, linear leaves that are a muted grey-green. From summer through autumn, it produces delicate plumes of small, dark purple flowers atop upright stems that have a hint of yellow. As autumn progresses, both the leaves and stems transition to a golden-yellow hue.
About the genus
Molinia consists of tufted, deciduous perennial grasses characterized by flat, narrow leaves and upright stems that support loose flowering panicles during the summer months.
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
- H7
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
- Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer'
- Cultivation
- Will 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
- Pruning
- Cut down dead foliage and old flowered stems, just before growth commences in spring
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in spring. Pot up until established
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to Acer gall mite, aphids, caterpillars and horse chestnut scale
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to Verticillium wilt, Acer leaf scorch and honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer'?
Will 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.
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 do I prune Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer'?
Cut down dead foliage and old flowered stems, just before growth commences in spring.
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 a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer'?
Propagate by division in spring. Pot up until established.