Blue-eyed Grass

Blue-eyed Grass
Sisyrinchium montanum

A charming native perennial with slender grass-like leaves and delicate star-shaped blue to violet flowers with bright yellow centers. Blooming from late spring into early summer, the small blossoms rise on thin stems above the foliage and open in sunny conditions. Despite its name, Blue-eyed Grass is actually a member of the iris family rather than a true grass.

This adaptable species grows naturally in prairies, open woodlands, meadows, and along woodland edges. Its compact size and fine texture make it an excellent addition to native plant gardens, where it brings subtle beauty and early seasonal color.

Growing Conditions

• Height: 8–16 in
• Spread: Clumping, slowly expanding
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Dry to medium moisture; tolerates sandy, loamy, or lightly clay soils
• Hardiness: Zone 3–8
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Drought tolerant once established
• Deer resistant

Ideal for prairies, open meadows, woodland edges, rock gardens, and pollinator plantings where smaller native species are desired.

Ecological Value

• Provides nectar and pollen for small native bees and pollinators
• Contributes to biodiversity in meadow and prairie ecosystems
• Adds fine texture and seasonal interest to native plant communities
• Supports beneficial insects

Larval Host Plant For
Primarily valued as a nectar plant for pollinators.

Companion Species

• Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum)
• Golden Alexanders (Zizia aurea)
• Ohio Spiderwort (Tradescantia ohiensis)
• Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)
• Prairie Junegrass (Koeleria macrantha)
• Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa)
• Downy Yellow Violet (Viola pubescens)

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive
Origin Native Plants

3.5 inch Pots