Purple Moor Grass Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Moorhexe'
ABOUT
The 'Moorhexe', also known as Purple Moor Grass, is an ornamental grass known for its clump-forming habit. It features thin, arching leaves, which have a deep green color, contributing to its lush appearance. Throughout the growing season, the foliage can take on subtle shades of blue and purple, adding a touch of unique color to the plant's display. Come autumn, the leaves undergo a transformation, adopting beautiful golden hues that offer a striking contrast to the fading colors of other plants in the landscape. In addition to its colorful foliage, 'Moorhexe' produces slender, airy flower spikes. These emerge above the foliage bearing a purple-brown coloration that softens to a wispy, straw-like tan as they age and the seeds mature. The overall impression of 'Moorhexe' is that of a delicate and graceful grass that sways with the wind, providing visual interest and texture to garden spaces. It is a hardy plant and is appreciated for its seasonal color changes and naturalistic form.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Purple Moor Grass, Moor Witch.
Common names
Airiformis caerulea, Molinia caerulea, Molinia caerulea var. arundinacea, Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea
ToxicityTo humans
Purple Moor Grass is not commonly known as a toxic plant to humans. There are no well-documented cases or studies indicating that this grass, or its varieties such as 'Moorhexe', poses a significant risk of poisoning when touched or ingested. Therefore, there are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant to describe. However, as with any plant material, individual allergies or sensitivities could potentially cause mild reactions in some people.
To pets
Purple Moor Grass is generally not considered toxic to pets either. There is no evidence to suggest that the 'Moorhexe' variety of this grass causes poisoning in animals such as dogs or cats if they ingest it. Consequently, there are no specific symptoms associated with Purple Moor Grass poisoning in pets. However, ingestion of any plant material can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset in pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea, due to the ingestion of non-digestible fibers or due to individual sensitivities.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The plant adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes with its fine texture and attractive foliage.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides nesting material and hiding places for small animals and insects.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for low-input gardening.
- Tolerance to Poor Soils: Adapts to various soil conditions, including poor soils where other plants may struggle to thrive.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers visual interest throughout the seasons with changing foliage colors and striking winter seed heads.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it can withstand periods of drought, reduced need for watering.
- Erosion Control: The plant’s root system helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and banks.
- Adaptability: It can grow in a range of climates and withstands temperature fluctuations.
- Privacy Screening: Can be used to create a natural screen or hedge, offering privacy in garden settings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Molinia caerulea 'Moorhexe' can be used as a dye plant, providing natural colors for fabrics and materials.
- This grass can be woven into baskets or mats due to its strong, flexible stems.
- It can serve as a bioindicator species, as its growth patterns may indicate certain soil and environmental conditions.
- The dried, fluffy seed heads of this grass can be used in floral arrangements for texture and interest.
- Molinia caerulea 'Moorhexe' is utilized as thatch for traditional roofing in some cultures.
- The grass can be incorporated into acoustic panels for noise reduction due to its fibrous nature.
- It can be used in papermaking, providing fibres that add strength and a unique look to handmade papers.
- This plant serves as an educational tool in botany and ecology studies, demonstrating plant structure and growth.
- Molinia caerulea 'Moorhexe' can be used in crafted home decoration items like coasters or placemats.
- It has potential use in bioengineering projects, such as stabilizing soil on slopes to prevent erosion.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Purple Moor Grass is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Purple Moor Grass is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purple Moor Grass: This species, known as Purple Moor Grass, often symbolizes resilience and adaptability due to its ability to thrive in moorland habitats which can be harsh and fluctuating environments.
- Mystery and Magic: The cultivar name 'Moorhexe' translates to 'Moor Witch' in German, suggesting themes of mystery, magic, and perhaps ancient wisdom associated with moorlands and their historical context in folklore.
- Harmony with Nature: Purple Moor Grass can also symbolize harmony with the natural world, as it is a vital component of moorland ecosystems and represents the balance between plant life and the unique ecosystems they support.
- Wild Beauty: This plant may signify the concept of wild beauty, as it remains largely untamed and exhibits a natural grace that enhances the landscapes where it naturally occurs.
- Change and Transition: As moorlands themselves are often places of transition between different ecological zones, the Purple Moor Grass can represent change and the ability to transition smoothly through different phases of life.
WaterThe Purple Moor Grass should be watered thoroughly once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. During periods of intense heat or drought, water twice a week with about half a gallon per plant each time. It's essential to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. During the winter, when the plant is dormant, reduce watering frequency to every other week, ensuring the soil doesn't completely dry out.
LightPurple Moor Grass thrives in full sun to partial shade. It does best in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate some light afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates, which helps protect it from the intensity of the midday sun.
TemperaturePurple Moor Grass prefers cooler climates and can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 86°F. The ideal growing temperature for this grass is between 60°F and 75°F. It can survive brief periods of colder temperatures, but prolonged exposure to extremes may damage or kill the plant.
PruningPurple Moor Grass should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cut back the dead foliage to about 4 inches above the ground. This annual pruning helps rejuvenate the plant, encourage new growth, and maintain an attractive shape. It's typically done once a year during the aforementioned timeframe.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Purple Moor Grass ('Moorhexe') should be fertile, moist, and well-drained. A mix high in organic matter, such as peat or compost, would be ideal. The pH for this grass should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingPurple Moor Grass ('Moorhexe') is typically not repotted as it is a perennial that prefers to be left undisturbed. Dividing the plant every 3-4 years in the spring can invigorate growth and manage its size.
Humidity & MistingPurple Moor Grass ('Moorhexe') is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special humidity conditions. It thrives outdoors where it can adapt to the ambient humidity levels of its environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, keep soil moist, divide every 3-4 years.
Outdoor
Full sun to light shade, moist soil, cut back in late winter.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleMoorhexe, a variety of purple moor-grass, begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in moist, acidic soil typically found in moorlands and other similar habitats. Upon germination, it develops into a small grass seedling, gradually forming a dense clump of fine, arching leaves. As it matures, it enters a vegetative stage characterized by the growth of its foliage and the deepening of its root system. During the reproductive stage, usually in mid to late summer, Moorhexe produces slender flowering stalks that rise above the foliage and bear small, wind-pollinated flowers. After pollination and seed set, the plant disperses its seeds to the surrounding area, ensuring the propagation of the species. During winter or harsh conditions, the above-ground parts might die back, but the plant survives through its rhizomes and roots, ready to undergo a new growth cycle with the arrival of more favorable conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
The most popular method of propagating the Purple Moor Grass 'Moorhexe' involves division, which is ideally done in the spring. This allows the plant to settle in and establish a root system throughout the growing season. To propagate by division, carefully lift the entire clump of the grass out of the ground using a garden fork, ensuring minimal root disturbance. Once out of the ground, the clump should be divided into smaller sections either by using a sharp spade or by teasing apart with hands, making sure each new section has a portion of roots. These sections can then be immediately replanted in a well-prepared soil, spaced about 24 inches (approximately 61 cm) apart to allow adequate room for growth. After planting, watering thoroughly is crucial to help the new divisions establish.
