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Golden Blue-eyed Grass

Sisyrinchium californicum

Last reviewed: August 2026

Sisyrinchium californicum is a native Pacific Northwest wildflower that produces bright yellow blooms from April through July. This low-water perennial thrives in full sun and attracts bees and butterflies.

Golden Blue-eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium californicum)
Photo: (c) Don Loarie, some rights reserved (CC BY)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–12" H × 4"–8" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun, Jul

Native to

CA, OR, WA

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 432 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

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Golden blue-eyed grass forms compact clumps of narrow, grass-like foliage topped with small yellow flowers from spring through midsummer. This petite perennial stays evergreen and maintains a tidy appearance year-round, making it perfect for borders or small spaces.

Growing Golden Blue-eyed Grass

Grow Golden Blue-eyed Grass in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 6 to 12 inches tall and spread 4 to 8 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Golden Blue-eyed Grass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Wildlife value

The bright yellow flowers attract native bees and small butterflies during its extended bloom period. Its compact size makes it valuable for creating pollinator habitat in smaller garden spaces.

Common questions

When does Golden Blue-eyed Grass bloom?
Sisyrinchium californicum blooms from April through July, producing small yellow flowers that attract pollinators.
What pollinators visit Golden Blue-eyed Grass?
This native plant attracts bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens in the Pacific Northwest.
Where is Sisyrinchium californicum native?
Golden Blue-eyed Grass is native to Washington state and other parts of the Pacific Northwest region.
Is Golden Blue-eyed Grass HOA-friendly?
Golden Blue-eyed Grass is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Golden Blue-eyed Grass? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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