Overview
Holcus mollis 'Variegata' is a grass in the genus Holcus, part of the Poaceae family. Holcus mollis 'Variegata' grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Suggested uses include ground cover and ornamental grass. It is native to Europe and North Africa.
About the genus
Holcus is a genus of African and Eurasian plants in the oat tribe within the grass family.
Wikipedia contributors, "Holcus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Holcus
In the garden
Holcus mollis 'Variegata' sits in the genus Holcus and is used where shade and moisture come together. Native to Europe and North Africa, the plant is typically deployed as a ground cover or ornamental grass where light is limited but the soil does not dry out completely. Its seasonal flowering runs from June to August, so plan positions where summer blooms will be visible beneath taller planting. Place Holcus mollis 'Variegata' in partial shade or full shade and choose a site with moist, yet freely draining loamy or sandy soil. It tolerates a broad soil pH range from acidic through neutral to alkaline, so soil chemistry rarely limits siting; the key is maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging. In a UK garden it works well beneath trees and large shrubs, along woodland margins, or as a shaded edging where a low, grassy ground layer is required. Combine it with other shade-tolerant plants to create layered planting and place it where summer flowers from June to August will be seen at eye level rather than lost under dense canopy.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Holcus
- Sunlight
- partial shade, shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, loamy, sandy
- Soil pH
- acidic, neutral, alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moist
Plant details
Holcus mollis 'Variegata' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass
- Suggested uses
- ground cover, ornamental grass
- Native to
- Europe, North Africa
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Holcus mollis 'Variegata'
- Propagation
- division
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Holcus mollis 'Variegata'?
Holcus mollis 'Variegata' prefers partial shade and shade.
What soil does Holcus mollis 'Variegata' need?
Holcus mollis 'Variegata' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including well-drained, loamy and sandy. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I propagate Holcus mollis 'Variegata'?
Division.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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