Molinia caerulea
Photo: Yann KemperCC0 1.0
grass

Blue Moor Grass

Molinia caerulea

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.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesMolinia caerulea offers elegant, airy plumes and striking blue foliage, perfect for adding texture and movement to gardens.
Practical UsesIt provides erosion control and stabilizes slopes with its dense root system.
Ecological BenefitsA valuable habitat for pollinators and wildlife, attracting bees and beneficial insects.

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

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select well-drained, moist soil with moderate fertility.
  2. Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
  3. Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist during establishment.
  4. Mist or lightly water young plants to promote root growth over 6 weeks.
  5. Thin out crowded plants to improve air circulation and growth.
  6. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderGraceful ornamental grass in naturalistic gardens

Companion Plants

EchinaceaRudbeckiaMiscanthusCalamagrostisPennisetum

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

Explore the genus

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.

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