Blue Eyed Grass
By Andrea Peck UCCE Master Gardener
Common name of plant: Blue-Eyed Grass
Scientific name: Sisyrinchium bellum
Planting area: USDA Zones 4-9
Size: 6-18” tall, 6-12” wide
Bloom Season: Spring to Summer
Exposure: Full or partial sun
Water needs: Low
Blue-eyed grass is an eye-catching California native that blooms from spring through summer, which is often seen in open fields or woodlands. Its stunning blue-lavender petals are offset by brilliant yellow centers. Its gray-green stems and thin, sword-like leaves would lead you to believe blue-eyed grass is a type of grass. However, this pretty flower is actually part of the Iris family.
Blue-eyed grass doesn't need major fussing over when it comes to soil, but it does prefer moderate irrigation and adequate drainage. Loamy soil is even better as it would prevent water loss and require less tending. As a California native, it's acclimated to short periods of drought. This plant is relatively hardy during cold snaps as it can withstand temperatures down to 20°F.
Blue-eyed grass gives the gardener a rare pop of blue in the garden. After flowering, it will reseed in the way only a native plant can do---as if it's been plotting for months where it'll lay down its next digs, selecting a nice spot to pleasantly surprise you.
Birds, butterflies, and bees love the blue-eyed grass. It's easy to see how the purple-blue and yellow combination pulls pollinators in---it has an intensity that is somewhat mesmerizing.
On a practical note, this plant is listed on several fire-resistant plant lists and is considered a good landscape addition when creating a fire-defensive space.
At the end of the season, it is recommended that you cut the foliage back and allow the plant to regenerate for more blooms next year. One word of warning---when small, this little dynamo is often mistaken for a weedy tuft of grass. Don't pluck it! Let it get through this awkward phase and you'll be rewarded with a beautiful plant in the spring.