Idaho Blue Eyed Grass

Sisyrinchium idahoense

Iridaceae

• Regional native
• Sun 
• Size: 6" tall x 1' wide
• Drought Tolerant: moderate - prefers spring moisture
• Evergreen: no
• Flower Color and Bloom Time: Blue to Purple (April to June)
• Wildlife Value: Attracts small native bees and beneficial insects

Idaho-Blue-Eyed Grass is a delightful small perennial that provides charming spring color in sunny gardens. Despite its common name, this plant is not a true grass but rather a member of the iris family. It naturally prefers dry, open meadows and thrives in full sun with well-drained soils. The plant responds particularly well to spring rains, producing a lovely display when adequate moisture is available early in the growing season.

The flowers are small but enchanting, appearing as delicate six-petaled stars in shades of blue to purple with bright yellow centers. Each flower opens in the morning and lasts only a day, but new blooms continue to appear throughout the spring from April to June. The flowers are held on slender stems above the foliage, creating a floating effect in the garden. The foliage is grass-like, consisting of narrow, blade-like leaves that grow in tufts, explaining the common name. The fine-textured foliage remains attractive even after flowering ends.

Idaho-Blue-Eyed Grass provides important nectar and pollen for small native bees and other beneficial insects during the spring flowering period. The small flowers are perfectly sized for tiny pollinators that might struggle to access larger blooms. The plant's preference for open meadows makes it valuable for maintaining diverse meadow ecosystems that support a wide range of insects and other wildlife.

This charming native provides a spring surprise in perennial gardens, especially when given spring rains and plenty of sunlight. It works beautifully naturalized in meadow gardens, rock gardens, or as edging along pathways. The grass-like foliage blends seamlessly with ornamental grasses and lawn alternatives. Plant in groups or drifts for best effect, as the small flowers are most impressive when massed together. Excellent companions include other spring wildflowers such as Blue Flax, Pasque Flower, and native bulbs. The fine texture provides nice contrast with bolder perennials.