Species creeping velvetgrass
green-beige foliage

creeping velvetgrass

Holcus mollis 'Albovariegatus'

Creeping Velvetgrass, (Holcus mollis 'Albovariegatus'), is an incredibly soft-looking and decorative perennial grass. This easy care plant creates a beautiful ground cover with its cascading foliage of thin grass-like blades, that sport creamy-white variegated stripes. The long runners act as a barrier, suppressing weeds while the mounds of deep green foliage form a thick cushion. While the plant is considered invasive in some areas, it is easily kept in check by mowing. Creeping Velvetgrass is perfect for difficult, sunny locations where other plants just won't grow and is a great addition to borders, beds, and slopes.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Purplish white Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow,white

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

Creeping velvetgrass (Holcus mollis 'Albovariegatus') should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the climate in which it is growing. Generally, for temperate climates, it should be watered every 7-10 days. In warmer regions it may require additional watering, at least every 5-7 days. Make sure to check that the soil is moist to the touch 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) below the surface before watering to ensure proper hydration. In dry, hot weather it is best to provide the grass with a deep watering, drenching the soil and allowing it to dry before the next watering. Avoid garden sprinklers as these will not provide adequate watering.

sunlight

Creeping velvetgrass (Holcus mollis 'Albovariegatus') is an excellent ground cover. For maximum growth and health, this plant species needs at least 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight each day. It is best to place the plant in a sunny area that receives morning light and is protected from the hottest part of the day. Full sun is tolerated but will benefit the most from light shade in the hottest part of the afternoon. This plant will tolerate partial sun, but its growth rate will slow down. It is best to place the plant in a location where it will receive as much meal sun as possible.

pruning

Creeping velvetgrass should be pruned twice a year—once in late spring and again in early fall. For best results, the plant should be cut back to a height of 3 to 4 inches. This species of grass responds well to pruning, but all cutting should be kept low to the ground. This variety of grass is also a self-spreading perennial, so extra effort should be put into controlling the spread of the plant during pruning. To prevent crowding, remove any dead shoots and runners, and limit the area of grass in each pot or garden bed.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Creeping velvetgrass typically starts flowering in June.

Hardiness Map