Blue Oat Grass (Helictotrichon sempervirens)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Ornamental Grass

Blue Oat Grass
Helictotrichon sempervirens

Blue Oatgrass <em>Helictotrichon sepervirens</em>
Blue Oatgrass Helictotrichon sepervirens
 
Features

Clump forming, dense upright, stiff blue green foliage. Tends to resemble blue fescue only larger. Flowers from June-August with golden oat like seed heads.

This is a clump forming cool season grass.

 
 
Culture
Prefers full sun with fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Good air circulation is also helpful to reduce foliage problems. 
 
Cultivars
 
 
Mature Height
18-24 Inches
 
Size
 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
4 - 9 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Shade
 
 
Foliage Color
Silver/White
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Prone to root rots in heavy wet soils. In shaded areas, it develops rust.

 
Additional Notes
Good as an accent or mass planting. Plants need cold in order to bloom so in mild climates it may not bloom well. Tends to produce less flowers if the weather is hot and humid.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic