Sisyrinchium
( siss - ir - RINK - ee - um )
At-A-Glance InformationThis genus of small flowering perennials needs full sun to light shade. They are relatives of Iris, and their flowers open up in sunshine. Commonly called Blue-Eyed Grasses, these plants are not true grasses, but their foliage is grass-like. They are native to much of the Western Hemisphere, and are great for informal gardens, cottage gardens or for naturalizing in large swaths at outer edges of the landscape. Take care when selecting and planting certain species in this genus, as their plant parts are toxic to humans and pets.
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sisyrinchium Species and Varietals
This genus is a member of the plant family Iridaceae and includes over 200 distinct species. Sisyrinchium grows well in zones 4-9 and 14-24, though this varies somewhat depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Sisyrinchium bellum (Western Blue-Eyed Grass, Californian Blue-Eyed Grass) This species is the most common of the Blue-Eyed Grasses in California and Oregon natural landscapes. They colonize in open places with some moisture, and love grasslands, woodlands, and high altitudes. Plants can reach up to 2 feet tall and produce grassy foliage. Flowers are blue to purple, occasionally white. Flowers bloom between March and July, peaking in April. |
Sisyrinchium californicum (Yellow-Eyed Grass, Golden Blue-Eyed Grass, Golden-Eyed Grass) This species is from the coastal regions of California up to British Columbia and reaches 6-24 inches tall and 8-10 inches wide. Leaves are a dull green and flowers are yellow with brown veining, blooming in late spring and early summer. This species needs ample water to perform and bloom well. |
Sisyrinchium idahoense bellum (Sisyrinchium bellum) (Idaho Blue-Eyed Grass) This species, native to the Oregon and California coastlines, grows well in zones 2-9 and 14-24. It reaches 4-24 inches tall and 6-24 inches wide, with bluish-green leaves and purple flowers that bloom in spring. This species requires moderate to regular water. Varieties include 'Devon Skies' (4-6 inches tall; dwarf form) and Sisyrinchium idahoense macounii 'Album' (with white flowers). |
Sisyrinchium striatum (Pale Yellow-Eyed Grass, Satin Flower) This native of Chile and Argentina reaches 3 feet tall and a foot wide, and has grey-green leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in spikes in spring (typically between the months of May and June). This species reseeds freely, and needs moderate water to bloom well. Variety 'Aunt May' ('Variegatum') has leaves striped with creamy yellow. |
Caring for Sisyrinchium
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 604, Sisyrinchium
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