Sisyrinchium angustifolium 'Lucerne'

There are as many as 90 species in this genus of grasslike plants from the Western Hemisphere, but only Sisyrinchium angustifolium is hardy for us. It's a carefree native, but we've never paid much attention to it because, frankly, it's not very showy. And then along came this 'Lucerne' selection, which we found at a nursery in Switzerland. It forms a clump of narrow, blue-green leaves 12" tall and wide that looks for all the world like an Ornamental Grass. Then, over a long period that begins in May and runs into July, it blankets itself with starry, lavender-blue flowers that are much larger than those of the species, fully 1" across. It makes a superb edging, especially along a walk or a terrace.

Plants flower best in full sun but also put on a good show in partial shade, and though the species is found in moist locations, they're not the least picky about soil. Thanks to this variety, Blue-eyed Grass finally moves from the wild to a prominent place in the garden. A White Flower Farm introduction.

For more information on the growing and care of Sisyrinchium, click Growing Guide.