Molinia caerulea susbp. arundinacea Transparent - Purple Moor-grass

Molinia caerulea ssp arundinacea Transparent is a perennial ornamental grass with evergreen foliage, and its light green to beige-pink spikelets turn golden to copper in autumn. They are so delicate that they appear transparent.

This perennial belongs to the Poaceae family (formerly known as grasses). The type variety grows naturally in heathlands and wet meadows across a large 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 arundinacea subspecies is much larger than the caerulea. The foliage of the Transparent variety forms a 90cm (35in) diameter sphere of acidic green, trailing and highly arched strips measuring 40 to 60cm (16 to 24in) in length. From August onwards, an inflorescence of long light green to beige-pink panicles emerges at the top of culms that are nearly 2 metres (7 feet) tall, contributing to the plant's overall bristly habit. The very slender stems and delicate spikelets reveal what is in the background through transparency, giving a sense of unparalleled depth of field. This Molinia develops its personality as the seasons unfold. It reveals its full ornamental potential when, in autumn, the already very slender and airy clump takes on a golden adornment that it will keep until the end of January. It grows very quickly, meaning that it will reach its mature size in 2 to 3 years. It should be planted in deep, slightly acidic to slightly chalky, but moist soil. It requires little maintenance and can tolerate temperatures down to -15°C (5°F). Be careful to keep the collar (where the leaves and roots meet) above the ground during planting. This grass is an asset in a garden, providing colourful masses during the cold season. Whether on its own or in a mass planting with smaller grasses like Pennisetum, its very structural aspect 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 highly stylised plant, it allows you to define different areas in a space while enjoying the effects of texture and movement. Additionally, it has the advantage of controlling soil erosion due to its root system. Clean the clump and divide it in spring: this is the best time and method of propagation to preserve all the characteristics of this beautiful grass.