Hierochloe occidentalis

Also Known As

California Sweetgrass
Vanilla Grass

Plant type

perennial, grass / grass like

size

H: 2'-3'
W: 2'-3'

planting zones

More Options

Hierochloe occidentalis plant details

Hierochloe occidentalis is a semi-evergreen perennial grass (or grassy in appearance) with green foliage. In spring and winter tan flowers emerge. Grows well with mostly shade - shade and regular - occasional water. Prefers to be dry in summer. Does well in average and clay soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Hierochloe occidentalis

Plant type: perennial grass (or grassy in appearance)
Plant family: poaceae
Foliage: semi-evergreen green
Mature size: 2 FT - 3 FT - wide, 2 FT - 3 FT - tall
Flowers: tan blooms in spring and winter

GROWING CONDITIONS for Hierochloe occidentalis

USDA Zones:
Sun exposure: mostly shade - shade
Watering frequency: regular - occasional
Resistant to: deer, verticillium wilt
Soil needs: average and clay

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This evergreen, spreading perennial grass grows to approx. 2'x2' can be found growing in coniferous forests along the west coast of North America. It prefers a shady situation, with summer irrigation. The whitish flowers are held on 18" stalks above broad, bright green, sweetly scented foliage. Excellent for woodland gardens, compatible with many redwood forest under story plants. Best with some summer water. Native to California and is also found outside of California, but is confined to western North America. No Ecological Value found. Fresh leaves used for fragrance in churches on Saints' Days and as incense by native Americans Found in coniferous forests. Communitites located in Redwood Forest, Mixed Evergreen Forest, Closed-cone Pine Forest Between 0 and 2460 feet .