An interesting group of plants belonging to the Iris family. In the wild they are found in the Americas where they prefer moister soils. Much more adaptable in cultivation, a well drained soil is essential but still preferring a soil that does not dry out. All are clump forming and division is advisable every few years to maintain vigour. S striatum is a reliable self seeder in the border or dry garden, whereas the variegated form can only be increased by replanting the non-flowering fans. The smaller forms make ideal rockery or edging plants.
Producing both nectar and pollen, Sisyrinchium species attract bees and flies, but the smaller species will only ever be a minor component in the provision of such resources within a garden, The largest, and consequently most important species for pollinators, is S. striatum: this has started to appear in the wild especially in south-eastern England. However these are generally short-lived and in disturbed and brownfield habitats, and so of little conservation concern.