Anthoxanthum occidentale, CA Vanilla Grass

A delight to encounter in coastal forests, this rich green 1.5' tall erect grass has delicate white flowers and a marvelous vanilla fragrance, particularly when dried. Likes semi-shade and some summer moisture.  We grow it under oaks and, here along the coast, in the open.

We find that here on the coast, California sweetgrass, as it is also called,  easily stays green through the summer, with just a small amount of extra moisture. It is perhaps the summer -greenest of the native bunchgrasses. The glossy green leaves have a fresh appearance right through the dry season.

Plant 2 to 3' apart.