WSU Clark County Extension
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Blue Oat Grass

Scientific name: Helictotrichon sempervirens
Taxonomy
Family:Gramineae
Type:Ornamental grasses
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:3 to 9
Sun:Full to partial sun
Plant Characteristics
Height:2 ft
Width:2 ft
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description Dramatic powder blue foliage and spiky architecture are hallmarks of this plant. The leaves resemble rigid, tapering pieces of steel blue linguine collected in a porcupine-like dome.

  Morphology:
This is a cool season ornamental grass with a clump forming habit that grows to 2’ in height and width. It does not creep by rhizomes or stolons like other grasses and is therefore considered non-invasive. New seedlings however will start on their own.

  Adaptation:
Blue Oat Grass does well in full sun or light shade. It likes a fertile moist soil, but will grow in a wide array of soil types. Good drainage is essential. Can be sheared in the fall to remove the older leaves or when-ever it needs to be re-invigorated.

  Pests:
Consider this grass to pest free.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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