Tall Moor Grass Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Zuneigung'

Water

The Tall Moor Grass should be watered deeply, but it does not require frequent watering once established; it's quite drought-tolerant. During the first growing season or until the plant is well-established, water it weekly, providing about 1 inch of water each time. After establishment, watering can be reduced, and the grass may only need additional water during prolonged dry spells. In terms of quantity, this would approximate to 0.6 gallons for a small plant each week initially. Always check the soil moisture before watering to ensure it is necessary, as overwatering can be harmful.

Light

The Tall Moor Grass prefers full sun to partial shade conditions. The best spot for this plant would be an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. However, it can also tolerate some shade, especially in the hotter parts of the day or in regions with very intense sun.

Temperature

The Tall Moor Grass thrives in an array of temperatures, tolerating a minimum temperature around -20°F and able to survive maximum temperatures above 100°F. Ideally, this grass prefers the cooler temperatures of its native temperate climate, making it an excellent choice for gardens with temperatures most often ranging between 50°F and 75°F.

Pruning

Pruning the Tall Moor Grass is essential for maintaining its attractive shape and encouraging new growth. Prune back the foliage to about 3 to 4 inches from the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. This annual pruning helps to remove old, dead growth and allows sunlight to reach new shoots.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Tall Moor Grass (Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Zuneigung') should be moderately fertile, moist but well-drained. It thrives in soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, around 5.5 to 7.0. A blend of loamy soil with added organic matter like compost would be ideal to support its growth.

Repotting

Tall Moor Grass typically does not require frequent repotting. It's often left undisturbed for several years. Generally, repotting may be considered every 3-5 years or when it becomes root-bound and shows decreased vigor, which is rare for in-ground plantings.

Humidity & Misting

Tall Moor Grass fares well in average outdoor humidity conditions. It does not have specific humidity requirements and can adapt to the humidity levels of most temperate climates where it thrives.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun to part shade, moist soil, and shelter from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Zuneigung', commonly known as Tall Purple Moor Grass, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in the spring when soil temperatures and moisture levels are adequate. The seedling emerges and establishes a root system while developing into a clump-forming perennial grass. Throughout the growing season, it undergoes vegetative growth, producing long, narrow leaves and strong, upright stems. In late summer to early autumn, it transitions to the reproductive stage, producing airy flower panicles atop the stems, which give way to seed heads that persist into winter. After setting seed, the above-ground parts of the plant die back with the onset of cold weather, while the roots remain dormant through the winter. The plant resumes growth the following spring, repeating the cycle with new foliage emerging, and the cycle continues year after year.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late Spring - Early Summer

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Zuneigung', commonly known as Tall Moor Grass, is through division. The ideal time to divide this grass is in the early spring, just as new growth begins to emerge. During propagation, a clump of the grass should be carefully dug up and divided into smaller sections, each with a portion of roots. These sections can then be replanted in well-prepared soil, ensuring the divisions are spaced approximately 18 inches (about 45 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth and airflow. The soil should be kept evenly moist until the new divisions have established themselves and begun to grow actively.