Blue Moor Grass
Molinia caerulea
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Molinia caerulea, commonly known as purple moor grass, is a perennial grass native to wetlands and grasslands. It features feathery flower heads that bloom in late summer. This species is particularly valued for its graceful, arching foliage and ability to thrive in damp conditions.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select well-drained, moist soil with moderate fertility.
- Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist during establishment.
- Mist or lightly water young plants to promote root growth over 6 weeks.
- Thin out crowded plants to improve air circulation and growth.
- Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in a location with full sun for best blue-gray foliage color.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Prune back in late winter to promote healthy growth
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t cut back in late fall to prevent winter damage
- Do not plant in heavy, poorly-drained clay soil without amendment
- Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer, which can promote disease
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| 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
Blue Moor Grass questions
What zones can Blue Moor Grass grow in?
Blue Moor Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Blue Moor Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Blue Moor Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Blue Moor Grass bloom?
Blue Moor Grass typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Blue Moor Grass need full sun?
Blue Moor Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Blue Moor Grass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Blue Moor Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
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Grow Blue Moor Grass with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
