Sisyrinchium angustifolium Devon Skies

Sisyrinchium angustifolium 'Devon Skies' is a small perennial, a relative of the Iris, offering the benefit of beautiful summer flowering with pale blue star-shaped flowers veined with dark blue. Adapted to drought, it nevertheless appreciates some moisture, which makes it suitable for both rockeries and well-drained soil around ponds.

Sisyrinchium 'Devon Skies' belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is a descendant of the Sisyrinchium angustifolium, whose origins are found on the shores and meadows of the Bermuda archipelago, in Canada (Labrador), the eastern United States from Texas to Maine and Minnesota. This perennial will reach a height of 10 to 20 cm (4 to 8in), with a moderately rapid growth rate.

The Narrow-leaved Sisyrinchium 'Devon Skies' forms a dense, compact tuft that spreads in all directions. In July and August, solitary star-shaped flowers appear among the green foliage.  These are a very bright pale blue colour, veined with dark blue, enhanced by yellow stamens. The plant produces an abundance of seeds that germinate easily. It develops grass-like, linear ,15 cm (6in) evergreen foliage, with a bluish-green to greyish-green, leathery texture. The young foliage of the seedlings closely resembles that of grass.

Plant Narrow-leaved Sisyrinchium 'Devon Skies' in any fresh but well-drained to occasionally dry soil, even poor and rocky. It requires a sunny position to flower. This perennial is moderately hardy, so it is advisable to mulch the base in anticipation of strong frosts. If you wish to prevent seed formation, you can remove the faded and unsightly inflorescences.

Sisyrinchium 'Devon Skies' is truly attractive in many ways. It is essential in Asian-inspired gardens with its clean shapes, and brightens up waterfalls and streams.  This perennial will be appreciated in rockeries, containers, borders, waterfalls, streams, banks or flower beds.