Collinsia grandiflora, commonly known as Giant Blue Eyed Mary, is an annual herb that is native to open woodlands and forest edges in the Western United States, including California’s chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats. It typically grows to about 35 centimeters in height and has a grass-like appearance before flowering. The plant produces a thin stem and narrow leaves, culminating in a showy inflorescence arranged in distinct whorls. Each whorl bears one to several pea-like flowers, each just over a centimeter wide, with bright purple lower lips and white upper lips, blooming in late winter to early spring.

Giant Blue Eyed Mary is valued for its vibrant purple and white flowers that add a splash of color to woodland gardens and shaded borders. It is often used for naturalizing in wildflower gardens and is appreciated for its ability to thrive with minimal care. The plant prefers part shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It requires low to medium water and is adaptable to various soil types with medium drainage. While it is generally free of serious pests and diseases, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. Due to its annual life cycle, it will need to be reseeded or allowed to self-seed for continued displays in subsequent years.CC BY-SA 4.0