Blue Oat Grass

Helictotrichon sempervirens
A handsome, non invasive clumping, evergreen grass with stiff, light blue-gray foliage and golden oat like blooms in summer. It reaches up to 2 x 4 feet ( with flowers up to 4 feet in height ). Blue Oat Grass is native to mountains from southeast France to northern Italy. The foliage is fast to emerge in spring.
Prefers full sun in cool climates, partial sun in hot climates and is best in deep, alkaline to slightly acidic well drained soil. Hardy zones 3 to 8 and tolerant of drought, hail, heat, salt as well as wind & is not eaten by deer. Unfortunately excessive winter moisture can cause rot. Great for harsh climates, the Blue Oat Grass even grows in Winnipeg. Cut back before new growth begins during spring. New plants should be installed during early spring and kept moist until established.

* photo taken on Jul 19 2017 @ Major's Hill Park, Ottawa, ON

'Robust'
Resistant to rust disease which sometimes occurs in hot humid climates.

'Sapphire'
Similar to species but faster, stronger growing and with wider leaf blades that are evem more intense blue. Reaches up to 5 x 3.5 ( rarely over 3 ) feet while in bloom ( foliage up to 17 inches in height ). It is resistant to leaf rust.
Looks great with burgundy colored foliage plants, esp. Heuchera.

* photo taken on August 2 2010 in Bayfield, Ontario

* photo taken on August 5 2010 in Windsor, Ontario

* photo taken on July 25 2015 @ Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

* photo taken on July 20 2024 in Columbia, MD