Sisyrinchium bellum

Sisyrinchium bellum is a small perennial cousin of Iris, with lavender blue star-shaped flowers for a long time in summer. It is drought-tolerant but will appreciate some moisture, which makes it suitable for rockeries or well-drained pond edges.

Sisyrinchium bellum belongs to the Iridaceae family, originating from the West Coast of America. It is found along the coast of California, in Oregon, in the state of Washington, in wet or marshy areas, dunes, heathlands, meadows and on the banks of ponds and rivers. This perennial will reach 10 to 20 cm (4 to 8in) high, with a moderately fast growth rate.
Sisyrinchium forms a dense, compact tuft, spreading in all directions. From late spring to late summer, solitary star-shaped, bright lavender-blue flowers with yellow stamens appear among the green foliage. The plant produces lots of seeds that germinate easily. It develops grass-like, (10 cm (4in)) long, evergreen, blue-green to grey-green, leathery foliage. The young seedlings look like grass.

Plant Sisyrinchium bellum in any fresh but well-drained to occasionally dry, even poor and rocky soil. It needs sun to flower. This perennial is only moderately hardy, so it mulch if severe frost is expected. Faded and unsightly inflorescences can be removed to prevent self-seeding.

Sisyrinchium bellum is attractive in many ways. It is essential in Asian-inspired gardens for its clean shapes, and brightens up waterfalls and artificial streams with seedlings appearing here and there to give a natural look. This perennial is great in rockeries, containers, borders, waterfalls, streams, banks, flower beds, or wetlands.