Overview
Helictotrichon pratense is a tufted grass like in the genus Helictotrichon, part of the Poaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Helictotrichon pratense grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include coastal, architectural, low maintenance and flower borders and beds.
About
Helictochloa pratensis, known as meadow oat-grass, is a species of perennial flowering plant in the grass family Poaceae, found in temperate parts of Europe and Asia. Its culms are erect and 30–85 cm long; leaves are mostly basal. It is restricted to shallow, calcareous soils such as those formed on chalk and limestone substrates. Grow it in full sun and loam soil. In UK gardens it is hardy in most of the UK (RHS H5). It works well for coastal, architectural, low maintenance and flower borders and beds. It tolerates neutral soils, well-drained conditions and south-facing, north-facing, west-facing and east-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in sun. Cut back in late winter.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Helictochloa pratensis
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Helictotrichon
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Helictotrichon pratense size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Architectural, Low Maintenance, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Helictotrichon pratense
- Propagation
- Division in mid-spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to a rust
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Helictotrichon pratense?
Helictotrichon pratense prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Helictotrichon pratense need?
Helictotrichon pratense grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Helictotrichon pratense hardy in the UK?
Helictotrichon pratense has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Helictotrichon pratense?
Division in mid-spring.
More in the Helictotrichon genus
- Helictotrichonoat grass
- Helictotrichon sempervirensblue oat grass
- Helictotrichon sempervirens 'Pendulum'