Overview

Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Igel' is a clump forming, tufted grass like in the genus Molinia, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Igel' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and neutral and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include coastal, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, prairie planting and wildlife gardens.

About

Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Igel' is a clump-forming, tufted deciduous grass cultivar within the Molinia genus, known for its flat, narrow leaves and upright stems bearing loose flowering panicles in summer. It thrives in moist but well-drained soils such as clay, loam, and sand, preferring full sun or partial shade and can be grown in a variety of garden settings including coastal, cottage, gravel, prairie, and wildlife gardens. Hardy to UK zone H7, it is suitable for all garden aspects and exposures. Propagation is best achieved by division in spring, with potting until established.

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. caerulea 'Igel' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Grass Like
Habit
Clump forming, Tufted
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Igel'

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

Where is the best place to plant Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Igel'?

Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Igel' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Igel' need?

Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Igel' 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.

Is Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Igel' hardy in the UK?

Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Igel' 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. caerulea 'Igel'?

Propagate by division in spring. Pot up until established.

More in the Molinia genus

Browse all Molinia