About Sisyrinchium pruinosum E.P.Bicknell
Sisyrinchium pruinosum E.P.Bicknell is a smooth, delicate perennial herb that grows in clumps. Its habit ranges from upright to sprawling, reaching 3.5 to 12 inches (9–30 cm) in height. Plants produce several slender, unbranched stems that are flattened and do not have the prominent wings seen in some related Sisyrinchium species. The open flowers measure up to 1.125 inches (3 cm) across, with six petal-like segments that spread widely. Flower color ranges from violet-purple to purple-blue, and white flowers occur rarely. One or a few flowers form a cluster at the tip of the stem, and flowers close during overcast weather. All leaves are basal, growing up to 9 inches (22.5 cm) long and 0.125 inches (3 mm) wide. Like the stems, leaves are slender, grass-like, and flattened. This species grows in clay or sandy clay soils in open prairies, pastures, meadows, open woodlands, and oak uplands. It often occurs in large abundant populations, and can form spectacular solid sheets of blue across entire pastures on warm sunny days. It is a very beautiful choice for use as a border in wildflower gardens. Sisyrinchium species hybridize easily, which often makes identifying individual species quite difficult.
