Blue Oat Grass ‘Sapphire’

Blue Oat Grass ‘Sapphire’ (Helictotrichon sempervirens ‘Sapphire’) is a clump-forming ornamental grass prized for its striking steel-blue foliage and tidy, fountain-like habit. In late spring to early summer, delicate beige oat-like panicles rise above the foliage, adding airy texture and subtle movement to borders, mass plantings or containers. This cultivar—also sold as ‘Saphirsprudel’ or ‘Sapphire Fountain’—offers improved rust resistance and better heat tolerance than the species. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, it remains semi-evergreen through winter and is deer-resistant. Hardy in Canadian zones 4–8, it brings year-round architectural colour to any garden.

Key Features
• Botanical name: Helictotrichon sempervirens ‘Sapphire’
• Synonyms: ‘Saphirsprudel’, ‘Sapphire Fountain’
• Common name: Blue Oat Grass ‘Sapphire’
• Hardiness zones: Canada Zone 4–8
• Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy or gravelly; tolerates drought
• Height: 60–90 cm (24–36 in)
• Width: 45–60 cm (18–24 in)
• Foliage: Steel-blue, arching narrow blades
• Flower colour: Beige to tan oat-like panicles
• Bloom time: Late spring to summer (May–July)
• Maintenance: Low; shear back to near ground in early spring
• Advantages: Semi-evergreen winter interest; improved rust and heat tolerance; drought- and deer-resistant