Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Variegata' | Variegated Purple Moor Grass
DESCRIPTION
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.
Native to the moist meadows and heathlands of Europe, 'Variegata' is prized for its refined, ornamental quality and ability to bring movement and structure to gardens. Its subtle, flowing form and variegated foliage make it a beautiful addition to borders, naturalistic plantings, or as an accent in more formal garden designs.
DESCRIPTION
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.
Native to the moist meadows and heathlands of Europe, 'Variegata' is prized for its refined, ornamental quality and ability to bring movement and structure to gardens. Its subtle, flowing form and variegated foliage make it a beautiful addition to borders, naturalistic plantings, or as an accent in more formal garden designs.
DESCRIPTION
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.
Native to the moist meadows and heathlands of Europe, 'Variegata' is prized for its refined, ornamental quality and ability to bring movement and structure to gardens. Its subtle, flowing form and variegated foliage make it a beautiful addition to borders, naturalistic plantings, or as an accent in more formal garden designs.
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Family: Poaceae
Height: 2 to 3 feet
Width: 1 to 2 feet
Foliage color: Green with creamy-white variegation
Flower color: Purple to brown flower spikes
Bloom time: Mid-summer to fall
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Water requirements: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; cut back in late winter or early spring
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 9
Wildlife attractors: Attracts birds and supports insect diversityThis plant can be seen in the perennial border and in the waterwise garden at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
