Overview

Sisyrinchium striatum is a clump forming perennial in the genus Sisyrinchium, part of the Iridaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. Sisyrinchium striatum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and ground cover. It is native to Argentina and Chile.

About

Sisyrinchium striatum is a perennial in the iris family known as Pale Yellow-Eyed Grass that flowers from May to July. It originates from Argentina and Chile and suits full sun to partial shade on well-drained soil with moderate moisture. In the UK it carries an H4 rating, meaning average garden hardiness. Plant where its mid-summer flowering period can be seen from paths or at the front of a border.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sisyrinchium striatum

About the genus

Sisyrinchium is a large genus of annual to perennial flowering plants in the family Iridaceae. Native to the New World, the species are known as blue-eyed grasses. Although they are not true grasses (Poaceae), they are monocots.

Wikipedia contributors, "Sisyrinchium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sisyrinchium

In the garden

A member of the Iridaceae, Sisyrinchium striatum comes from Argentina and Chile and brings a clear May–July flowering window to temperate gardens. The common name Pale Yellow-Eyed Grass reflects its placing in the Sisyrinchium genus rather than a grassy habit; it works where summer blossom is wanted without late-season bulk. Place it in full sun or a spot with some afternoon shade on well-drained soil; keep soil moisture moderate rather than persistently wet. The plant is rated H4 for UK hardiness, which equates to average tolerance of typical UK winters — it will suit most regions but avoid heavy winter waterlogging and very exposed, frost-prone sites. Use Sisyrinchium striatum in mixed borders, rock gardens or as a ground-covering perennial in sunnier areas. Its flowering timing bridges late spring bulbs and later summer perennials, so it provides continuity in sequence-driven planting. Give plants room to form clumps and position where the May–July flowers will be visible from paths or seating areas to take best advantage of the season it offers.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Sisyrinchium

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained

Soil pH

Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

moderate

Aspect

South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Exposed, Sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Sisyrinchium striatum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Habit

Clump forming

Foliage

Semi evergreen

Suggested uses

borders, rock gardens, ground cover

Native to

Argentina, Chile

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Sisyrinchium striatum

Cultivation

Prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Tolerates drought once established.

Pruning

Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming; cut back in late winter or early spring.

Propagation

Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but less common.

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions