Sisyrinchium angustifolium

Where sunlight finds the floor of the floodplain forest in springtime, a fairy-like twinkle of blue-and-yellow blooms may soon appear. These are the flowers of blue-eyed grass, a delightful member of the ground-layer flora. The plant’s narrow leaves and tussock-like growth seem more akin to a grass than a wildflower, hence its common name.

In nature, blue-eyed grass occurs in a variety of habitats, from open, streamside woods to wet meadows. When cultivating this plant in the home landscape, gardeners should site it in places of full to partial sunlight and moderate moisture. Blue-eyed grass will be most persistent if planted adjacent to other short-statured plants, rather than taller forbs that may outcompete it. The plant will gradually spread to form a small patch, and dividing it every few years will help to keep it vigorous. 

In full sun, blue-eyed grass makes a lovely companion to sundrops, and in partial shade, it provides a fine compliment to columbine and foamflower. Blue-eyed grass’s short stature (approximately 1’) makes it a perfect choice for the garden border, or for lining a walkway. The plant’s fine texture fits in beautifully in sections of the garden which highlight grass-like plants and sedges.

In terms of floral visitors, blue-eyed grass seems to be a particular favorite of green metallic sweat bees. When seeking pollen and nectar, these stunning creatures add yet another colorful dimension to the plant’s pretty blooms. For gardeners whose yards are often visited by deer, blue-eyed grass is a good choice due to its low palatability.

Photo © k.draper, CC BY-ND 2.0