Sisyrinchium montanum (Fr: bermudienne montagnarde | EN: strict blue-eyed-grass)

Strict Blue-eyed Grass

Sisyrinchium montanum
Alternative names: Mountain Blue-eyed Grass
French: Bermudienne montagnarde, Herbe aux yeux bleus

Sisyrinchium montanum, or Strict Blue-eyed Grass, is a delicate, clump-forming native wildflower that brings charm and resilience to sunny, well-drained areas. Despite its name, it is not a true grass—but a member of the iris family, with narrow grass-like leaves and small purple to violet star-shaped flowers.

It is the more common of the two blue-eyed grasses in our region and thrives in a variety of open habitats, including meadows, rock barrens, and sand dunes. Its compact size—rarely exceeding 15 cm—makes it perfect for path edges, rock gardens, or planting between stepping stones, where it won’t interfere with foot traffic.

This plant is remarkably adaptable, tolerating both flooding and drought once established. It blooms from May to July, offering subtle but elegant colour during the early summer.

Height: Up to 15 cm
Bloom time: May to July
Light: Full sun
Moisture: Dry to moist
Soil: Various, prefers well-drained
Habitat: Meadows, rock barrens, sand dunes
Ecological benefits: Pollinator-friendly, adaptable groundcover
Edible: Not edible