Sisyrinchium californicum

Sisyrinchium californicum is a small perennial cousin of Iris, with bright yellow star-shaped flowers for a long time in summer. It is adapted to drought, but likes some moisture. Suitable for rockeries and well-drained pond surroundings.

Originally from the American West, Sisyrinchium californicum belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is found along the coast of California, in Oregon, in the state of Washington, in Canada, in wet or marshy areas, in dunes, heathlands or meadows and on the banks of ponds and watercourses. This perennial will reach 10 to 20 cm (4 to 8in) high, with moderately rapid growth.
The Sisyrinchium forms a dense, compact tuft, spreading in all directions. From late spring to late summer, solitary star-shaped, very bright yellow flowers, enhanced by yellow stamens, appear among the green foliage. The plant produces many seeds that germinate easily. It develops grass-like, (15 cm (6in)), evergreen, blue-green to grey-green, leathery foliage. The seedlings closely resemble grass.

Plant Sisyrinchium californicum in any moist but well-drained to occasionally dry, even poor and rocky soil. It needs sun to flower. This perennial is moderately hardy, mulch the mother plant if severe frost is expected. If you wish to prevent self-seeding, remove the faded and unsightly blackened flower stalks.

Sisyrinchium californicum is attractive in many ways. It is essential in Asian-inspired gardens for its clean shapes, and it will brighten up waterfalls and artificial streams with its self-sown seedlings, appearing here and there to give a natural look. This perennial will look good in rockeries, pots, borders, waterfalls, streams, banks or flower beds..