Western Blue-eyed Grass
Sisyrinchium bellum
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Prefers dry to moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Western North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Sisyrinchium bellum, commonly known as the blue-eyed grass, is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its attractive blue flowers and grass-like foliage. This species is notable for its stunning star-shaped blooms that appear in abundance during late spring, adding vibrant color to gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist, well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Water consistently during the growing season for optimal growth.
- Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly in spring and summer.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun for best flowering and ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Apply a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot ❌
- Don't disturb the roots during the growing season
- Refrain from fertilizing in late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Western Blue-eyed Grass questions
What zones can Western Blue-eyed Grass grow in?
Western Blue-eyed Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Western Blue-eyed Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Western Blue-eyed Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Western Blue-eyed Grass bloom?
Western Blue-eyed Grass typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Western Blue-eyed Grass need full sun?
Western Blue-eyed Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Western Blue-eyed Grass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Western Blue-eyed Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Sisyrinchium to compare
Lucerne Blue-eyed Grass
Sisyrinchium angustifolium 'Lucerne'
Suwannee Blue-eyed Grass
Sisyrinchium nashii 'Suwannee'
Yellow Blue-eyed Grass
Sisyrinchium tinctorium 'Puerto Yellow'
Narrow-leaved Blue-eyed Grass
Sisyrinchium angustifolium
Devon Skies Blue-Eyed Grass
Sisyrinchium x hybrida 'Devon Skies'
Blue-eyed Grass
Sisyrinchium brachypus
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Western Blue-eyed Grass with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
