Sisyrinchium striatum

Spikes of soft yellow flowers with darker centres are clustered vertically along upright stems, above iris-like fans of pale grey-green leaves. This evergreen perennial is a versatile plant, popular with garden designers. Flowering at the start of summer, its distinctive foliage adds structure and texture all year round.

Native to woods and scrub in Argentina and Chile, it is tough and hardy, flourishing even after forest fires. Once established it becomes drought tolerant, making it an excellent choice for a gravel garden or dry, sunny border. It can also cope with dappled shade in moist but free-draining soil, though it dislikes exposure to winter wet. It grows best in alkaline to neutral, well-drained soil with little or no fertility, in full sun.

Height × Spread: 75cm × 60cm