Overview
Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen' is a tufted grass like in the genus Molinia, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Suggested uses include prairie planting and cottage and informal garden.
About
This perennial grass, known as Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen', forms dense, vase-shaped tufts that can reach heights of up to 90 cm. It features robust clumps of green foliage that transition to a rich golden-brown hue as autumn approaches. In summer and autumn, its upright stems bear purplish flowers that rise above the leaves, eventually giving way to seedheads that provide visual interest during the winter months.
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
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, East-facing, South-facing, North-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Prairie planting, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen'
- Cultivation
- Grow in any moisture-retentive, humus-rich, acidic to neutral soil, in an open site in full sun or partial shade; will tolerate infertile soil
- Pruning
- Cut down dead leaves and old flowered stems to just above ground level in late winter or early spring; cut stems can be left around the plants as a mulch
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in spring, and pot up until established
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen'?
Grow in any moisture-retentive, humus-rich, acidic to neutral soil, in an open site in full sun or partial shade; will tolerate infertile soil.
Where is the best place to plant Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen'?
Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen' need?
Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to poorly-drained.
How do I prune Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen'?
Cut down dead leaves and old flowered stems to just above ground level in late winter or early spring; cut stems can be left around the plants as a mulch.
How big does Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen' grow?
Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen' reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen' hardy in the UK?
Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen' has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Poul Petersen'?
Propagate by division in spring, and pot up until established.