Blue-eyed Grass - Sisyrinchium montanum

Sisyrinchium montanum, or Blue-eyed Grass, is a perennial wildflower native to Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. There are several species with a similar appearance. Despite its common name, Blue-eyed Grass is not a grass but is a diminutive member of the Iris family. The U.P. variety is hardy and takes poor soil in stride.  I first encountered them growing on a gravel berm around petroleum storage tanks where it didn't look like plant life could rightfully exist.  The Blue-eyed Grass was perfectly happy growing in bare dry gravel.  It spreads via underground rhizomes or seed when conditions allow, but usually forms clumps.  It can naturalize into lawns where it looks like grass, but hold off on the mowing to enjoy the bright blue spring flowers with yellow centers.  
 
The May or June flowers open in the morning and close in the evening.  They are a great early nectar source for our native bees and bloom before most other plants.  These small 8" to 12" plants like full sun and well-drained soil, but will grow in loam, clay, or sand.  They are especially striking planted in clumps. If Sisyrinchium montanum is not available, S. angustifolium or S. albidum from our affiliate nursery in Laingsburg, MI, will substitute.