All About Sisyrinchium angustifolium ‘Lucerne’

Sisyrinchium angustifolium, or blue eyed grass, is one of the most unique native perennials you might grow in your native garden.  Part of its uniqueness stems from its air of mystery…Is it a grass that blooms like an Iris or is it an Iris that looks like a tuft of small grass?  It is safe to say that it is a little of both which, in itself, makes it an intriguing addition to any native planting.

Its small scale makes it perfect for small spaces and rockery but its ability to spread makes it an ideal plant for small groups or larger mass plantings.  Deep green, short, narrow, flat, lance-like foliage emerges in spring to form a tight clump approximately 6 or 7 inches in height.  Flattened flower stems rise through the foliage carrying buds that open in mid May revealing blue-violet flowers with striking yellow centers.  While Blue Eyed Grass blooms with gusto for 4 to 5 weeks in May and June, it tends to rebloom throughout the summer and fall. 

Its profusion of small flowers really put on an impressive show but you will not be the only one that is struck by its unanticipated power in the landscape.  Native bees are enthusiastic fans of this plant’s bloom as Sweat Bees, Bumble Bees, Beeflies and Syrphid Flies all line up for the pollen and nectar of its small but powerful flowers. Blue Azure Butterflies are also big fans and can be seen fluttering amongst the bloom on a regular basis.  Even native songbirds love this plant for the seed its spent flowers produce.

The most prominent naturally occurring selection of blue eyed grass is ‘Lucerne’ and it is sold far more often that the straight species.  ‘Lucerne’ sports larger, darker colored flowers and shorter stems giving it an even more powerful garden punch.  Whether you plant ‘Lucerne’ or the species, the amount of attracted pollinators and birds will be considerable and constant.

But, let’s get back to the air of mystery about this plant.  Is this super powered, small sized beauty a grass or an Iris?  Despite its common name of Blue Eyed Grass, Sisyrinchium angustifolium is actually a part of the Iris family! No matter what its lineage, there is no doubt that Sisyrinchium angustifolium deserves to have a prominent presence in any native landscape.