Molinia caerulea 'Banshee' (PBR)
purple moor grass
- 9cm pot
- £12.99
- available to order from autumn
Delivery options
- Standard £5.99
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: moist but well-drained, preferably with an acid to neutral pH
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: May to September
- Hardiness: fully hardy
Few ornamental grasses offer such long-lasting seasonal impact and climate resilience as Molinia caerulea 'Banshee'. This clump-forming grass produces upright, airy plumes from early summer that shift in colour from dark purple to soft pink, bringing light movement and texture to borders. The fine green foliage forms neat tussocks, providing structure at the base, while the flower spikes rise elegantly above.
As the year advances, the foliage and stems take on golden tones, and even in winter the plumes hold their form, adding architectural interest when many plants have died back.
Extremely versatile, purple moor grass thrives in well-drained soil and copes with drought, heat, humidity, pollution and coastal winds, once established. Low maintenance and reliable, it is well suited for perennial borders, naturalistic planting schemes, coastal gardens and mass planting. It also makes excellent cut material, both fresh and dried, extending its value beyond the garden.
As the year advances, the foliage and stems take on golden tones, and even in winter the plumes hold their form, adding architectural interest when many plants have died back.
Extremely versatile, purple moor grass thrives in well-drained soil and copes with drought, heat, humidity, pollution and coastal winds, once established. Low maintenance and reliable, it is well suited for perennial borders, naturalistic planting schemes, coastal gardens and mass planting. It also makes excellent cut material, both fresh and dried, extending its value beyond the garden.
Plant Molinia in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. It grows best in acidic to neutral conditions and appreciates a spot that doesn’t dry out in summer. Avoid very dry or overly rich soils, which can cause the plant to flop.
Once established, it's low maintenance. Cut back the dead foliage to ground level in late winter before new growth appears. Plants in more exposed garden settings may benefit from shelter from strong winds. It can be left to form natural clumps or divided every few years in spring if needed to maintain vigour.
Once established, it's low maintenance. Cut back the dead foliage to ground level in late winter before new growth appears. Plants in more exposed garden settings may benefit from shelter from strong winds. It can be left to form natural clumps or divided every few years in spring if needed to maintain vigour.