Meadow Eyebright

(Euphrasia officinalis subsp. pratensis)

Meadow Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis subsp. pratensis)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Euphrasia officinalis subsp. pratensis image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Euphrasia officinalis subsp. pratensis, commonly known as Meadow Eyebright, Eyebright, Large-Flowered Sticky Eyebright, or Common Eyebright, is an annual herb native to grasslands, meadows, and pastures across Europe. It typically grows to a height of 0.1-1 feet (0.03-0.3 meters) and features small, lanceolate leaves. The flowers are white or purple with yellow variegations and a prominent lower lip, blooming from late spring to early autumn. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite showy due to their abundance and attractive coloration.

Meadow Eyebright is valued for its traditional use in herbal medicine, particularly for eye-related conditions, hence the name "Eyebright." It is also appreciated for its delicate flowers and ability to attract pollinators such as bees. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and thrives in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, provided they have medium drainage. While it requires medium amounts of water, it can tolerate periods of dryness once established. Meadow Eyebright is not commonly used in large-scale horticulture but can be found in wildflower mixes and naturalistic plantings. It is relatively low-maintenance but can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.1-1 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

native to grasslands, meadows, and pastures across Europe

Other Names

Common Names: Meadow Eyebright, Eyebright, Large-Flowered Sticky Eyebright, Common Eyebright

Scientific Names: , Euphrasia officinalis subsp. pratensis, Bartsia imbricata, Euphrasia agrestis, Euphrasia cantalensis, Euphrasia capitulata, Euphrasia carniolica, Euphrasia cuprea, Euphrasia cuspidata, Euphrasia cuspidatissima

GBIF Accepted Name: