Hierochloe occidentale - Vanilla Grass

Description

This unusual grass 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 brihgt green and rather broad foliage. This grass is suitable for the woodland garden, and is compatable with redwood understory plants. The scented leaves were used for fragrance in churches on Saints' Day and as incense by native Americans.