Sesleria sadlerana - Hungarian Blue or Green Moor Grass

More than a decade ago we introduced Sesleria heufleriana to our catalogue of grasses. I wanted a nice looking grass for dry shade. It took awhile for the public to realize its merits, but now it is one of our top sellers. After 10 years, we list it along with Sesleria autumnalis, S. argentea, S. caerulea and now S. sadlerana.

Since most true grass thrive in open sunny areas, its a real treat to find a whole group for those dry shady areas.

Sesleria sadlerana is an early spring bloomer and the dark violet-blue flowers rise slightly above the upright green leaves. Early woodland bulbs are a perfect companion.

Description: cool season; clump forming
Foliage - grey-blue on the surface, green on the underside; narrow; 35-40 cm (14-16") tall
Flowers - March-April; dark violet-blue; 40-45 cm (16-18") tall

Ideal conditions: best in shade to part shade; average to dry soil; tolerant of alkaline soil, heat and drought; if planted where it receives lots of sun, it will need extra moisture

Zone: 3-9 (find your zone; further info on plant hardiness)

Partner with: Carex flacca, Carex pensylvanica, Molinia, Sedum ellacombianum, Sedum sexangulare

Suggested uses: shade or open woods, specimen, groups, massing

Season of interest: early spring through fall

Form: upright foliage

Drought tolerance rating: 2 (water to root depth once every 2 weeks); further info

Native to: southern Europe, Asia

Recommended spacing between plants: 60-90 cm (24-36") why such a difference?

Pronunciation: Sesleria (ses-LAIR-ee-ah) sadlerana (sad-ler-ana)

More ornamental grasses

Compare Sesleria sadlerana to our other grasses in this handy chart.