Autumn Moor Grass
Sesleria autumnalis
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
24 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Adaptable
Lifespan
Long-lived perennial grass
Native To
Southern Europe, Caucasus
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Sesleria autumnalis is a cool-season, clump-forming ornamental grass known for its bright, chartreuse-green foliage. It forms a neat, dense mound that is semi-evergreen. This species is particularly valued for its late-season interest, producing silvery-white flower spikes from late summer into autumn. It is exceptionally tough and adaptable to various conditions, including drought and alkaline soils.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a site in full sun or light shade with good drainage.
- Amend soil with compost if it is very poor or heavy clay.
- Dig a hole as deep and twice as wide as the container.
- Tease out the roots and place the plant in the hole.
- Backfill with soil, firm gently, and water well.
- Water regularly during the first season to establish.
Pro Tip
Cut back foliage in late winter to make way for fresh, vibrant new growth in spring.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide good drainage.
- Cut back old foliage in late winter for a fresh appearance.
- Water during extended drought periods once established.
- Plant in masses for the best visual impact.
Don't
- Don't plant in constantly wet or boggy soil.
- Avoid excessive fertilization, which can cause floppy growth.
- Don't divide too frequently as it is not necessary.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Autumn Moor Grass questions
What zones can Autumn Moor Grass grow in?
Autumn Moor Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Autumn Moor Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Autumn Moor Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Autumn Moor Grass bloom?
Autumn Moor Grass typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Autumn Moor Grass need full sun?
Autumn Moor Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Autumn Moor Grass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Autumn Moor Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
