June 2008
Ohio Prairie Plant of the MonthSpecies
Common Name: Common or White Blue-eyed Grass
Latin Name: Sisyrinchium albidum [Pronounced: "sis-eh-RIN-kee-um AL-bih-dum "]
Type of Plant: Forb
Identification Helps: A native, grass-like forb, growing up to 20 inches, with white or light blue to blue flowers (as in photo on left) in late May and June. Usually (when mature -- flowers to left are not) with two flowers per stem. Leaves are grasslike, long and narrow, from ground.
There are several other Blue-eyed Grasses in Ohio prairies. This species does not have flowers with long stems. Others have multiple, long flower stems and wider or narrower leaves. Identification usually requires a technical guide.
Preferred Growing Conditions in the Wild: Common Blue-eyed Grass grows in fields and prairies.
Preferred Soils: Found in most soils.
Seasons of Growth and Bloom: This forb blooms from May through early July.
Natural Distribution in Ohio: Found in all major prairie counties in Ohio.
Description and General Information: This delightful little forb begins the summer season on many prairies. It can be an interesting prairie garden plant. Flowers can be white, or shades of blue.