Hawai’i Blue-Eyed Grass: A Rare Hawaiian Native Worth Protecting
Meet Hawai’i blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium acre), a delicate Hawaiian native that’s become one of the islands’ botanical treasures—and unfortunately, one of its most endangered plants. Known locally as mau`u la`ili, this petite perennial represents the unique flora that makes Hawaii’s ecosystems so special.
Where You’ll Find This Island Beauty
Hawai’i blue-eyed grass is found exclusively in Hawaii, making it a true endemic species. This little plant calls only the Hawaiian Islands home, which makes it extra precious in the world of native gardening. However, its distribution is extremely limited, contributing to its imperiled conservation status.
A Plant That Needs Our Help
Here’s something every gardener should know: Hawai’i blue-eyed grass has a Global Conservation Status of S2, meaning it’s imperiled. With only 6 to 20 known occurrences and an estimated 1,000 to 3,000 individual plants remaining in the wild, this species is walking a tightrope toward extinction.
If you’re considering adding this rare beauty to your garden, proceed with extreme caution and responsibility. Only source plants from reputable native plant nurseries that propagate from ethically collected seeds or cuttings—never take plants from wild populations.
What Makes This Plant Special
Sisyrinchium acre is what botanists call a forb—essentially a non-woody perennial herb that dies back to ground level but returns year after year. Like other members of the blue-eyed grass family, it likely produces small, delicate flowers that belie its grass-like foliage.
This plant typically grows in upland areas rather than wetlands, though it can occasionally be found in wetter conditions. Its facultative upland status means it’s adapted to well-drained soils and doesn’t require constantly moist conditions.
Growing Hawai’i Blue-Eyed Grass Responsibly
Given its rarity, growing Hawai’i blue-eyed grass comes with serious responsibilities:
- Only obtain plants from certified native plant nurseries
- Never collect from wild populations
- Consider participating in conservation efforts if available
- Share seeds or propagated plants with other conservation-minded gardeners
As a Hawaiian endemic, this plant is likely adapted to Hawaii’s unique climate conditions and may not survive in other regions. It’s best suited for gardens within its native range where it can contribute to local ecosystem restoration.
Creating Habitat in Your Garden
When incorporating rare natives like Hawai’i blue-eyed grass into your landscape, think ecosystem restoration rather than ornamental gardening. Plant it alongside other Hawaiian natives to create authentic habitat that supports local wildlife and preserves genetic diversity.
Since specific growing requirements for this species aren’t well-documented, observe how it performs in your garden and adjust care accordingly. Most blue-eyed grass species prefer well-draining soil and can tolerate some drought once established.
The Bigger Picture
Growing Hawai’i blue-eyed grass isn’t just about adding a unique plant to your collection—it’s about participating in conservation. Every responsibly grown plant represents hope for this species’ survival and contributes to maintaining Hawaii’s irreplaceable botanical heritage.
If you can’t source this rare plant ethically, consider supporting conservation organizations working to protect Hawaiian native species, or focus on other Hawaiian natives that are more readily available and equally important for local ecosystems.
Sometimes the most meaningful act of gardening isn’t what we plant, but what we choose to protect.
