Mountain Blue-eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium montanum)

Mountain Blue-eyed Grass

Sisyrinchium montanum

Delicate star-shaped blooms glow like tiny sapphires. Clumping herbaceous perennial; common name: Mountain Blue-eyed Grass.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Thrives in full sun to partial shade; tolerates short periods of dry, sunny conditions
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Watering Allow top 2–3 cm of soil to dry between waterings; highly drought tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to USDA zones 3–9; tolerates heavy frost and moderate summer heat
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear, grass-like blue-green foliage forming dense clumps
  • Flower: Star-shaped pale blue to violet blooms with bright yellow central throats
  • Stem: Slender, upright stems bearing terminal flower clusters
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 2 months. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote flowering without excessive foliage growth

Banana peel tea:Steep 2–3 chopped banana peels in 1 gallon of water for 3 days; strain and apply as root drench to avoid pest attraction
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower stems to encourage extended blooming
  • Trim back browned foliage in late autumn to tidy clumps for winter
  • Divide overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years in early spring to maintain vigor
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity symptoms

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental for rock gardens, wildflower meadows, and border plantings; supports native pollinators