Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' GOLDEN VARIEGATED HAKONECHLOA Requires moist fertile soil with added leaf mold. Although a slow grower, in time it forms a thick graceful clump in the shade. Bright yellow variegated, arching blades become a pink-red in the fall turning tan into winter. All of those who behold its soothing shape want it. Be careful when siting, as it burns in too much sun and loses its yellow appearance in too much shade. Plant so it faces the light because the foliage cascades in that direction. Hakonechloa macra will tolerate more sun (with good moisture), is hardier and faster growing. Loose clumps of arching dark green leaves look like bamboo. In summer the appealing flowers develop in-between the foliage and in the fall the foliage turns a coppery orange color. Use it as an excellent container plant, a non-invasive ground cover or a handsome foliage foil. Hakonechloa macra 'Albo Striata' ('Albovariegata') has dark green leaves with thin white stripes variably along the edges and centers. Larger and more vigorous than H. m. 'Aureola', this white striped hakone grass also tolerates sunnier sites.

Helictotrichon sempervirens BLUE OAT GRASS Thin blades are stiff looking, sharp tipped, and slightly yet gracefully arching. The dense clump is a metallic blue color and semi-evergreen. Needs well drained fertile, humusy soil with average moisture and good air circulation (open and airy). Heavy, wet soil may cause rot, and too much summer rain, shade, and still air can cause rust. Plant alone or in masses allowing space to mature to show its best. Meadows and dry slopes are excellent sites. Helictotrichon s.'Sapphire' is very similar in appearance to the straight species, but has improved rust resistance.

Hystrix patula BOTTLEBRUSH GRASS see Elymus hysterix