Helictotrichon sempervirens ‘Sapphire’ Common name: Grass-Ornamental, Blue Oat Grass. Blue Avena Grass; a/k/a ‘Saphirsprudel’ and ‘Sapphire Fountain’. Zones 3 to 8. Full sun. Plants reach 18 to 24 inches tall and 18 to 24 inches wide; Clump forming, semi-evergreen habit. Growth rate: Moderate, easy to grow, cool season ornamental grass. Blue Oat’s wiry, vivid blue-gray leaves radiates out from the center like a miniature water fountain. Densely packed leaves gently spread upward and arch back downward at the tips. Bright, steel blue leaves tend to widen as they mature. Foremost variations from the species – ‘Sapphire’ has slightly wider leaf blades, better blue color, better disease resistance (especially to rust) and better tolerance for heat and humidity. In mild climates, ‘Sapphire’ is evergreen; it is semi-evergreen in colder zones.
In early summer, small, tan seed heads appear on tall stems held well above the foliage. Blue Oat adds a small, coarse element to rock gardens, coastal gardens, or dry hillsides. It is also great in containers.
Helictotrichon sempervirensgrows easily in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil. ‘Drier conditions will result in the best blue color. Use a stiff rake to remove old foliage. Northern zone plants may benefit by being cut back close to the ground in late winter.
Excellent as a border plant, container, dried flower or seed heads, drought tolerant, edging, ground cover, mass plantings, salt tolerant and specimen or focal point.
Not available for shipment to CA
Mature field grown plant shipped bare root.
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