Blue-Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium angustifolium) is a semi-evergreen perennial prized for its dense, narrow grass-like foliage adorned with delicate violet star-shaped flowers. The centers of the petals are black in color with bright yellow stamens, making the flower a distinct and attractive feature along walkways, rockeries, or naturalizing plants. This plant can easily self-seed in optimal conditions and prefers to be in full to partial sun.
Etymology
The genus name Sisyrinchium is derived from the Greek words sisys and rhynchos, which means pig’s snout. The species name angustifolium translates to “narrow leaf” in Latin, referring to the foliage of the plant. It is a member of the Iridaceae family, which includes many other species of plants.
How To Plant
Blue-Eyed Grass prefers full to partial sun and moist, well-drained soil. If more than one is planted in the same area, make sure to leave at least a foot of space between them. This will ensure that they all have ample room to spread. When planting it, make sure the root area is completely covered. It is also important to water the soil periodically to maintain the right moisture level in the soil.
Blue-Eyed Grass is a hardy plant that is simple to propagate, as it can be grown from either seeds or divisions. It can be propagated from seed in either spring or fall. Seeds should be planted in well-drained soil, at a depth of about one-fourth inch. Make sure that the seeds are in a location that receives at least eight hours of direct sunlight.
Meaning and Symbolism
Blue-Eyed Grass is a symbol of joy and happiness, thanks to its star-shaped flowers. Its bright yellow stamens and delicate petals also symbolize purity and innocence—ideals often associated with youthfulness. Symbolically, its soft hues evoke a sense of gentleness, while its narrow leaves are a symbol of endurance. It is also seen as a symbol of protection, as it was often described in various cultures as wards against malicious spirits or supernatural harm.
History, Mythology and Religious Significance
Blue-Eyed Grass was historically used by Native American tribes in traditional medicine and rituals. The Yaqui and Pima tribes were known to use it to soothe poor eyesight, while the Cherokee used it to treat headaches. In other cultures, it was known to be a sign of courage and strength for those in battle, and seen as a talisman for those seeking protection against physical harm.
In the Greek and Roman cultures, Blue-Eyed Grass was thought to be a symbol of youth and innocence, as well as a sign of the gods’ favor. In Medieval France and medieval Britain, it was seen as a powerful symbol of protection against any kind of misfortune.
Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics
There are several different varieties of Blue-Eyed Grass. The most common is Sisyrinchium angustifolium, the species of blue-eyed grass popularized in gardens and landscapes. It is known for its narrow, grass-like foliage and its star-shaped violet flowers. It is a hardy plant that grows best in full to partial sun and moist, well-drained soil.
Another widely-grown variety is Sisyrinchium striatum. It is native to North America and is very similar to Sisyrinchium angustifolium, but with a few noticeable differences. Its foliage is slightly broader than angustifolium, and its flower petals are a slightly darker shade of blue. It is a hardy plant that also prefers full to partial sun and moist, well-drained soil.
How To Pot and Repot
The best time to pot or repot your Blue-Eyed Grass is in early summer. When you’re ready to start potting or repotting your plant, make sure to choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. The pot should also have at least one drainage hole, to ensure the soil does not become waterlogged.
Fill the pot with a quality potting mix such as peat-based soil, then lightly water to moisten the soil. Carefully place the plant in the pot, taking extra care not to damage the root system. Make sure that the crown of the plant is even with the rim of the pot.
Once the plant is in the pot, add more soil until the root system is completely covered. When the pot is filled to the desired level, water the soil again to ensure it is moist and not overly saturated. Blue-Eyed Grass is a hardy plant that can be planted indoors or out.
How To Prune
Prune your Blue-Eyed Grass twice a year to keep it looking its best. The first trim should take place in late spring to remove any dead or damaged foliage and to shape the plant. Prune selectively, always taking care to preserve the natural form of the plant.
The second trim should take place in late summer, after the flowers have died back. This trim should focus on removing any dead or damaged foliage, as well as any straggly growth. It is important to be gentle when pruning your Blue-Eyed Grass, as it can be damaged easily.
How To Propagate
Blue-Eyed Grass is a hardy plant that is easy to propagate. It can be propagated by seed or division, both of which are simple to do. To propagate by seed, collect the seeds after the flowers fade and sow them in a container filled with a good quality potting mix. Water lightly and keep the soil evenly moist.
To propagate by division, dig up the entire plant in early spring. Carefully divide the root system into sections, taking care to make sure each division has enough roots to survive. Place the divisions in new pots filled with a quality potting mix and water them lightly.
Common Pests and Diseases
Blue-Eyed Grass is a hardy plant that is not usually affected by common pests or diseases. To keep it healthy, make sure to provide it with adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. Water this plant consistently as it does not tolerate drought. It is also important to avoid over-watering or over-fertilizing, as this can lead to nutrient deficiencies or other problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the family name of Sisyrinchium angustifolium?
A: Sisyrinchium angustifolium is a member of the Iridaceae family.
Q: Is Sisyrinchium angustifolium a perennial, biennial, or annual plant?
A: Sisyrinchium angustifolium is a perennial plant.
Q: Is Sisyrinchium angustifolium suitable for indoors or outdoors?
A: Sisyrinchium angustifolium is suitable for both indoors and outdoors.
Fact Sheet
| Blue-Eyed Grass | Sisyrinchium angustifolium |
|---|---|
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 6-12 inches |
| Sun Exposure | Full to Partial Sun |
| Soil Type | Well-drained Soil |
| Soil pH | 6.4 – 7.4 |
| Bloom Time | Late Spring to Early Summer |
| Flower Color | Violet with bright yellow stamens |
| Hardiness Zones | 4 to 9 |
| Native Area/Range | North America |
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