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Genus Helictotrichon

Helictotrichon sempervirens Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais

hel-ik-toe-TRY-kon

Tufts of green or grayish blue foliage distinguish these 50 or so species of deciduous and evergreen perennials and grasses from Europe, western Asia, and North America. Flowers rise above the foliage in glistening small spikes. Grow in a border or in gravel.
Noteworthy characteristics: Attractive foliage and glistening flowers that wave in a breeze.
Care: Choose a site in full sun with well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil. Prefers alkaline soil.
Propagation: Divide, or sow seed in a cold frame, in spring.
Problems: Rust.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Helictotrichon

Helictotrichon sempervirens
(Blue oat grass)

(1 user review)

Hardiness Zones:

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.