Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea Skyracer - Purple Moor-grass

Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer' is a perennial ornamental grass with evergreen foliage and purple spikelets that turn copper to golden in autumn.

This perennial belongs to the Poaceae family. The typical variety grows naturally in heathlands and wet meadows across a wide arc from northern Europe to eastern Siberia. It is also sometimes found in central Europe in wet areas. It is named after the Chilean botanist Juan Ignacio Molina and the blue colour of its inflorescence (caerulea). The sub-variety arundinacea is significantly larger than the caerulea.

The foliage of the 'Skyracer' variety forms a dark green sphere with trailing strips measuring 40 to 60cm (16 to 24in) in length and 100cm (39in) in diameter. From July onwards, it produces long purple panicles at the top of culms that can reach heights of 2m (7ft) or more, which contribute to the overall bristly appearance of the plant. This Molinia reveals its ornamental qualities as the seasons progress. In autumn, the already delicate and airy tuft takes on a copper to golden hue that it retains until the end of January. It grows very quickly, reaching its mature size in 2 to 3 years.

It should be planted in deep, slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, moist soil. It requires little maintenance and can withstand temperatures down to -15°C (5°F). Be careful to keep the collar (where the leaves and roots meet) above ground level when planting. This grass is an asset in a garden, providing colourful masses during the cold season. Whether planted individually or in a group with other smaller grasses such as pennisetum, its highly structural nature should be taken into account. In a small garden, it can serve as a hedge, allowing you to enjoy its height without having to deal with excessive width. As a sculptural plant, it allows you to define different areas within a space while enjoying the effects of texture and movement. Additionally, it has the advantage of controlling soil erosion thanks to its root system.

Clean the tuft and divide it in spring: this is the best time and method of propagation to preserve all the varietal characteristics of this beautiful grass.