yellow-eyed grass
Sisyrinchium californicum
Iridaceae · perennial · native
Last updated
As of March 31, 2026, soil temperature at Kent / Auburn is 47.7°F. yellow-eyed grass, hardy to Zone Zones 8–10, is in early-season conditions in Zone 8b.
Yellow-eyed grass is a short-lived perennial in the iris family native to wet meadows and stream banks of California and Oregon. Growing 12-24 inches tall, it produces linear leaves and delicate yellow flowers arranged in terminal clusters. The flowers open in the morning and close by afternoon.
This species thrives in wet to moist soil in full sun to light shade and prefers consistent moisture during the growing season. Hardy to USDA zones 7-10, it is best treated as an annual in cooler regions or grown in container gardens. The plant self-seeds readily and attracts small native bees.