Lucerne Blue-Eyed Grass

Lucerne Blue-Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium angustifolium 'Lucerne')

Lucerne Blue-Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium angustifolium 'Lucerne') is a charming, compact perennial that produces a profusion of violet-blue, star-shaped flowers with bright yellow centers. Despite its common name, this plant is not a true grass but a member of the iris family, forming clumps of slender, grass-like foliage that add soft texture to garden beds and borders. With its long bloom period, pollinator-friendly appeal, and low-maintenance nature, it is an excellent choice for rock gardens, edging, and naturalized plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Lucerne' stands out with its abundant deep blue-violet flowers, which appear atop wiry stems from late spring through early summer. The blooms contrast beautifully with the plant�s fine, upright, green foliage, creating a delicate yet striking effect. This selection is more floriferous and compact than the species, growing 8 to 12 inches tall and spreading 12 to 15 inches. It forms neat, tidy clumps that slowly expand over time, making it ideal for mass plantings or as a low-growing accent in mixed beds.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil.
• Water: Moderate watering; tolerates short dry periods once established.
• Humidity: Adaptable to various conditions but prefers good air circulation.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9, making it widely adaptable.

Ideal Uses

• Rock Gardens: Adds delicate color and fine texture.
• Edging: Perfect for pathways, borders, and garden edges.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees and butterflies with nectar-rich blooms.
• Meadow and Wildflower Gardens: Blends beautifully in naturalized settings.
• Containers: A great choice for small-space gardens and decorative pots.

Low Maintenance Care

Lucerne Blue-Eyed Grass is a resilient, easy-care perennial that thrives with minimal attention.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature.
• Pruning: Trim back spent flower stalks to encourage new growth.
• Fertilizing: Benefits from a light application of compost in spring.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally pest-free and disease-resistant.
• Winter Care: Foliage may die back in colder climates but returns in spring.

Why Choose Lucerne Blue-Eyed Grass?

Lucerne Blue-Eyed Grass offers delicate beauty, compact growth, and pollinator-friendly blooms, making it an ideal choice for diverse garden settings.

• Abundant Violet-Blue Flowers: A more floriferous variety with extended blooms.
• Compact, Tidy Growth: Ideal for small gardens and edging.
• Pollinator Magnet: Provides nectar for bees and butterflies.
• Drought-Tolerant: Thrives in dry to moderately moist soils.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established.

For a long-blooming, elegant, and easy-to-grow perennial, Lucerne Blue-Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium angustifolium 'Lucerne') is an exceptional choice for borders, rock gardens, and naturalized plantings.