Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Variegata'

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Key characteristics

Family: Poaceae
Height: 2 to 3 feet
Width: 1 to 2 feet
Flower color: Purple to brown flower spikes
Foliage color: Green with creamy-white variegation
Bloom time: Mid-summer to fall
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; cut back in late winter or early spring
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 9
Wildlife: Attracts birds and supports insect diversity

Perennials

Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Variegata'

Variegated Purple Moor Grass

Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Variegata', commonly known as variegated purple moor grass, is a graceful ornamental grass valued for its arching, variegated foliage and airy flower spikes. The leaves feature green blades with creamy-white margins, adding texture and color to garden beds. From mid-summer to early fall, it produces delicate, wispy flower panicles that emerge greenish-purple and mature to a soft golden hue, creating a light, feathery appearance that sways elegantly in the breeze.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Mid-summer to fall

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Cottage Gardens
Bird Gardens
Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Hellebores · Hardy geraniums · Hostas · Ferns · Astilbes · Foxgloves

Design tip

Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. It takes sun or light shade, which makes it useful along the changing light of a bed edge or a partly shaded border.