Sisyrinchium striatum, Phaoiphleps nigricans 'Aunt May'
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Sisyrinchium striatum (Phaiophleps) 'Aunt May'• Click here to visit our Main Plant List page for current availability of this plant
• flowering season: early summer
• height: 18 to 30 inches
• Light requirements: sun, afternoon shade
• Soil requirements: average soil that drains well
• Water requirments: average
• Growth habit: grows into a clump
• How to propagate: dividing a plant in early summer or early autumn
• Leaf type: long, blade-like leaves
• Ways to use it: its upright, spikey growth would provide a contrasting accent to its neighbors in the garden or in a mixed container planting
• Special characteristics: grows well in dry shade
• Other points of interests: the plain-leaf form of the plant is unusual; 'Aunt May' is even less common
A plant for milder climates, the leaves of this resemble the leaves of a bearded iris. This variegated form is known as 'Aunt May,' with creamy margins to her leaves. Its small flowers are very un-iris like, being ½ to ¾-inch long, colored in straw yellow. We recommend dividing a plant every couple of years. Give it average soil and get it off to a good start with regular waterings until it settles in. Afternoon shade is recommended for most places. Once established it grows happily in dry shade. Native to Chile, the leaves on a mature plant can reach to 18 inches in height, with flowers in early summer on stems of 24 to 30 inches. USDA Zones 7, 8 and 9. A newer name for this plant is Phaiophleps nigricans. Limited quantity.
