Autumn Moor Grass
Sesleria autumnalis
Poaceae · grass grasslike · introduced
Last updated
As of March 31, 2026, soil temperature at Kent / Auburn is 47.7°F. Autumn Moor Grass, hardy to Zone Zones 4a–9b, is in early-season conditions in Zone 8b.
Autumn moor grass is a fine-textured, tufted bunchgrass native to alpine and subalpine areas of central Europe. Growing 6-12 inches tall, it produces narrow, glossy, dark green leaves and distinctive reddish-brown flower spikes that appear in late summer and persist through fall.
Autumn moor grass thrives in full sun to light shade with well-drained, rocky or sandy soil. It is extremely cold-hardy and drought-tolerant and useful for rock gardens, alpine containers, and ornamental plantings in cool climates. The plant spreads slowly and is low-maintenance once established.