Sisyrinchium californicum (Golden Blue-Eyed Grass)

Sisyrinchium californicum (Golden Blue-Eyed Grass) is a clump-forming, semi-evergreen perennial forming a tuft of narrow, grass-like, pale green leaves. In late spring to early summer, a profusion of delicate, star-shaped, golden-yellow flowers are borne atop flat stems. The flowers last only one day, but they are produced in great quantities.

Sisyrinchium californicum (Golden Blue-Eyed Grass) is a clump-forming, semi-evergreen perennial forming a tuft of narrow, grass-like, pale green leaves. In late spring to early summer, a profusion of delicate, star-shaped, golden-yellow flowers are borne atop flat stems. The flowers last only one day, but they are produced in great quantities. Native to moist areas along the Pacific coast from California north to southern British Columbia, this charming wildflower is perfect for moist meadow gardens, containers, or borders. It looks great in a rock garden as long as adequate moisture is provided. Golden Blue-Eyed Grass self-seeds readily and naturalizes easily.

  • Grows up to 6-24 in. tall (15-60 cm) and 8-10 in. wide (20-25 cm).
  • Easily grown in moist to wet soils in full sun or light shade. Tolerates sandy or clay soils.
  • Great for border fronts, cottage gardens, rock gardens, or along streams and ponds.
  • No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for root rot. Deer resistant.
  • Propagate by seed or division.
  • Promptly remove spent flowers to avoid undesired self-seeding
  • Native to California, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia.

Requirements

Hardiness 7
– 10

Heat Zones 7
– 9

Climate Zones 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Sisyrinchium
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)Summer (Early)
Height 6"
– 2'
(15cm
– 60cm)
Spread 8"
– 10"
(20cm
– 25cm)
Spacing 8″
– 10″
(20cm
– 25cm)
Water Needs Average, High
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Moisture Retentive, Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Semi-Evergreen
Native Plants California, Pacific Northwest, Oregon, Washington
Tolerance Deer, Wet Soil
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Ponds and Streams, Rain Gardens
Garden Styles Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Mediterranean Garden