Blue Oat Grass

Blue Oat Grass (Helictotrichon sempervirens)

Blue Oat Grass (Helictotrichon sempervirens) is a striking, evergreen ornamental grass known for its steel-blue foliage and upright, clumping habit. This cool-season perennial adds bold color, texture, and architectural interest to rock gardens, borders, and mixed landscapes.

Distinctive Features

This species forms dense clumps of stiff, narrow leaves that maintain their vivid blue-gray color year-round. Its upright form and sharp texture provide a striking contrast to softer garden plants, making it a favorite for adding structure and color.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained soils; tolerates sandy and rocky conditions
• Water: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�8

Ideal Uses

• Rock Gardens: Provides striking blue color and texture among stones
• Mixed Borders: Adds architectural interest and color contrast
• Accent Planting: Serves as a bold focal point in garden beds
• Low-Maintenance Landscapes: Suitable for drought-tolerant and xeriscape designs
• Container Planting: Ideal for patios and small spaces

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water moderately; drought tolerant once established
• Pruning: Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring to promote fresh growth
• Fertilizing: Generally not required; apply light feeding if needed
• Mulching: Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Protection: Prefers well-drained sites and protection from excessive moisture

Why Choose Blue Oat Grass?

• Striking Steel-Blue Foliage: Adds bold, year-round color and texture
• Upright Clumping Habit: Provides architectural structure in landscapes
• Drought Tolerant: Suited for low-water garden designs
• Low Maintenance: Easy to grow with minimal care requirements
• Focal Point: Creates striking color contrast and texture

Helictotrichon sempervirens is a versatile, low-maintenance ornamental grass that enhances gardens with bold color and refined form.