About

A rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial forming a mat of linear, white-margined leaves, with pale green flowering panicles in summer.

About the genus

Holcus can be annual or rhizomatous perennial grasses, with soft, linear leaves and dense, pale green or pinkish flowering panicles in summer

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeGrass Like
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden

Care notes

CultivationGrow in any poor to moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Intolerant of full sun on poor dry soil
PruningTrim after flowering and deadhead to prevent self-seeding as it can be invasive
PropagationDivide in mid-spring. Seeds do not come true
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a rust