Variegated Moor Grass Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Variegata' (v)

Water

The most common common name for Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Variegata' is Variegated Moor Grass. It should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Depending on the climate and soil conditions, an approximate guideline is to provide the grass with at least 1 inch of water per week. This could translate to watering deeply once a week with a slow stream of water, allowing moisture to reach deep into the root system, rather than multiple shallow waterings. During particularly hot and dry periods, the frequency may increase to twice per week, ensuring that the total amount of water received is roughly equivalent to 1–2 gallons per week per plant, depending on size and environmental conditions.

Light

Variegated Moor Grass thrives in a spot with full sun to partial shade. The best light conditions for this plant involve receiving direct sunlight for at least 4-6 hours a day; however, it can also perform well with dappled sunlight. Avoid placing it in deep shade as this can reduce the vibrancy of the variegated leaves and potentially stunt growth.

Temperature

Variegated Moor Grass is hardy and adaptable to a range of temperatures. It can survive in temperatures as low as -20°F and as high as 90°F. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F. While it can tolerate cold winters, prolonged exposure to temperatures at the higher end of its range may require additional watering to prevent stress.

Pruning

Prune Variegated Moor Grass to remove old foliage and to promote new growth, usually done in late winter or early spring before new shoots appear. Pruning before the growing season helps maintain the shape of the plant and prevents it from becoming too dense. Once a year is typically sufficient for pruning. Cut the grass back to about 4-6 inches above the ground using sharp shears.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Purple Moor Grass prefers a soil mix that has good drainage, is rich in organic matter, and retains moisture without being waterlogged. A combination of loamy soil, peat, and sand, maintaining a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5, works well for this plant.

Repotting

Purple Moor Grass typically does not require frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years to refresh the soil or when the grass has outgrown its current pot.

Humidity & Misting

Purple Moor Grass thrives in moderate humidity levels, not requiring any special humidity conditions, making it well-suited for the natural humidity found in most outdoor environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Purple Moor Grass in bright light and ensure good air flow.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to partial shade, moist well-drained soil, trim in spring.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Molinia caerulea 'Variegata', commonly known as Variegated Purple Moor Grass, follows a perennial life cycle. It begins with seed germination, typically occurring in spring when soil temperatures warm sufficiently. This is followed by the vegetative growth stage, where the plant develops its distinctive variegated foliage, forming a clump of arching, linear leaves. As the growing season progresses, this grass produces tall flowering stems in late summer to fall, which bear small, airy panicles of flowers that can persist into winter, adding visual interest. After flowering, the plant goes into senescence during the cold months; the above-ground foliage dies back, but the root system remains alive, overwintering underground. In the following spring, Molinia caerulea 'Variegata' emerges again from the rootstock, restarting the cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Variegata', commonly known as Variegated Purple Moor Grass, is through division. The ideal time for this is in the spring, just as new growth begins to appear. To propagate by division, carefully lift the clump of grass from the ground using a spade, ensuring a substantial amount of root is attached. The clump should then be divided into smaller sections, each having several growing points. These divisions can be replanted immediately in well-prepared soil, ensuring that they are spaced adequately to allow for future growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method is preferred because it is simple and effective, maintaining the variegation and vigor of the parent plant.