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| Category: Grass |
| Family: Poaceae (Gramineae) (Grasses) |
| Origin: Mediterranean (Europe) |
| Evergreen: Yes |
| Flower Color: Light Blue |
| Bloomtime: Summer |
| Height: 1-2 feet |
| Width: 1-2 feet |
| Exposure: Sun or Shade |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Low Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: < 0 °F |
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Helictotrichon sempervirens (Blue Oat Grass) - This stunning European grass has been one of the most popular plants we have grown for many years. It is a cool season evergreen clump-forming grass that grows to 2 feet tall with blue-gray leaves radiating out like a bristly porcupine. The light tan flowers are on erect spikes that rise a foot above the foliage in summer. Use as an accent plant or in mass. Plant in full sun or light shade and give occasional irrigation. Best in soils with good drainage and may rot in heavy soils, especially if over irrigated. The blue color occurs in dryer soils when plant is in full sun or bright shade; too much shade and the plant flops over and opens up in the middle. Maintain plants by removing withered leaves as they appear or by occasionally pulling a steel rake through the foliage. This plant remains evergreen in mild climates but is considered semi-evergreen in areas that experience harsher winters. In these areas it is best to trim plants back close to the ground in late winter. 'Sapphire', a new more disease resistant cultivar with wider and bluer leaves, has begun to replace the species.
This description of this plant is based on our research and our observations of it growing at the nursery, in our own garden and in other gardens. We always appreciate receiving feedback of any kind from those who have any additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or have additional cultural tips that would aid others growing Helictotrichon sempervirens .
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