Blue-Eyed Grass – Sisyrinchium bellum

Description

Blue-Eyed Grass is actually a member of the iris family, with bright periwinkle blue flowers with yellow centers and small iris-like leaves. The plant forms a slowly increasing clump and is widely distributed in California and Oregon on open, grassy slopes and meadows.  This is a great candidate for rock gardens and makes a bright addition to any location in the garden.  Bees love the flowers and birds love to eat the seeds. The plants can be established either by direct seeding into the garden in the Fall or by setting out plants. Fall seeding naturally stratifies the seed and allows it to begin germination in spring when the weather is still very cool. If the spring weather is very dry, it will be necessary to water the area twice a week to ensure good germination. Plants can be set out in the garden in a spot with full sun in the spring, as soon as the danger of frost is passed, or in summer. They should bloom the second year from seed.
Color:  Purple/Blue
Height:  4-16
Type:  Perennial
Climate:  Sun-Med/Moist Soil
Seeds/lb.:  317,000
Bloom time: Spring/Summer
Zone: 5a-9b