Molinia 'Moorflamme'
Molinia caerulea 'Moorflamme' is a striking ornamental grass with narrow green foliage that develops rich flame colored tones in fall. Its upright flower stems emerge above the foliage in summer and create a graceful airy texture that adds movement, structure, and seasonal interest to the landscape.
Height & Spread: 30 - 36 in x 24 - 30 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist well drained soil; adaptable to average soils
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but tolerates established drought conditions
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is a selected form of Molinia caerulea, a species native to Europe and parts of western Asia. It is not native to North America but is valued as an ornamental grass for its upright habit and strong seasonal color.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Provides seed heads and protective cover that can support songbirds throughout the later seasons.
Butterflies
- Offers shelter and structure for butterflies and other pollinators moving through perennial plantings.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 30 in apart to allow its upright clumping form and airy flower stems to develop fully.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for mixed borders, meadow style gardens, rain gardens, and naturalistic plantings where its fine texture and fall color provide long lasting interest.
Companion Plants
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Adds bold summer flowers and strong pollinator value against the fine texture of Moorflamme.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Provides bright golden blooms that contrast with the grass's warm autumn tones.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' (Meadow Sage) - Adds upright purple flower spikes that complement the airy flower stems.
- Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage) - Creates a soft haze of lavender blooms that pairs well with the grass's vertical structure.
- Achillea millefolium (Yarrow) - Brings flat flower clusters and drought tolerance that balance the grass's fine foliage.