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Helictotrichon sempervirens

Also called:

Blue Oat Grass

Botanical Description

Plant Family:

Poaceae

Semi-Evergreen

Grass

Oregon Native?

No

West State Native?

No

France and Italy

Flower:

Other

Blooms from :

Jun

to:

Jun

Spikelets of bluish-brown flowers arranged in open, one-sided panicles arching at the tip appear on erect stems rising well above the foliage clump in June. Flower spikelets mature to a golden wheat color by fall.

Foliage:

Other

Features very narrow (3/8" wide), spiky, steel blue leaf blades (to 18") which form a rounded, porcupine-like clump.

Site Selection

Minimum USDA Hardiness Zone:

4

Water Needs:

M

Sun Needs:

Full Sun

Deer Resistant?

Yes

Firewise?

No

Height:

2-4'

Spread:

2-3'

Growth Rate:

Slow

Native Habitat:

Native to central and southwest European grasslands

Soil Needs

Acidic; slightly alkaline; sand; loam; clay. Easily grown in average, dry to medium. Best blue color occurs in dryish soils.

Fertilizer Needs:

Recommended Mulch:

Wildlife Uses

Attracts Pollinators?

No

Attracts Birds?

No

Supports Butterflies?

No

Wildlife use description:

COMGA

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