Hierochloe odorata
holy grass
A very rare native grass found only in a few spots in Scotland and Ireland. Best known for its strongly scented leaves, reminiscent of vanilla or new-mown hay, leading to its use in ceremonies and as a strewing herb in countries where it is more widespread. It grows as compact tufts up to 50cm tall spreading via rhizomes to create dense patches or mats. Flowers comprising open sprays of rather rounded, greenish-brown spikelets appear in spring
Synonyms
Hierochloe borealisBuy this plant
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Brown Green | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Poaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Tufted
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Found in wet, grassy places and prefers moist but well-drained, more or less neutral soil in sun or partial shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by division
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
No pruning required, can be tidied after flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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