Stout Blue-Eyed Grass
By Lise Fracalossi
aka blue-eyed grass, narrow-leaved blue-eyed grass
Sisyrinchium angustifolium
Native to: All New England
Life cycle: Perennial
Light: Full/Partial Sun
Soil Moisture: Medium-Wet to Medium-Dry
Height: 6-18"
Spacing: 6-8"
Blooms: May-June
Bloom Color: Blue
Natural Habitat: Meadows and fields, shores of rivers or lakes, wetland margins
Benefits: Attracts Bees, Attracts Songbirds, Low Maintenance, Benefits Other Pollinators/Wildlife
“Closely related to Iris, blue-eyed grass blooms continuously all summer, opening during the day and closing at night. This versatile clumper will thrive in average to moist soils, attracting numerous pollinators.”
– Native Plant Trust
“A large patch of these little plants is truly a sight to behold, especially if you are a bee. Pollinators readily take to the flowers, which is nice considering that most Sisyrinchium species bloom and provide pollen and nectar to our winged friends before some of the larger summer flowers really get going. The petals even provide markings that are like runway signs for pollinators. Yellow is a favorite of bees and the yellow center of this flower is a perfect announcement of yummy treats within.”
– Prairie Moon Nursery
Stout blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium angustifolium)
Featured image by Alex Abair, CC BY 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=180088963