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Description
Sisyrinchium Campestre, commonly known as Prairie blue-eyed grass, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Iris family. It is native to North America and can be found in the prairies, meadows, and open woods of the United States and Canada. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer, producing small blue or purple flowers with yellow centers on branched stems that grow up to 18 inches tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Sisyrinchium |
Appearance
Sisyrinchium Campestre has narrow, grass-like leaves that grow up to 12 inches long and 0.25 inches wide. The leaves are blue-green in color and form basal clumps. The plant produces branched stems that grow up to 18 inches tall and bear small and delicate flowers in shades of blue and purple with yellow centers. The flowers are star-shaped and have six petals that are 0.5 inches long.
Care Guide
Sisyrinchium Campestre is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant occasionally during dry spells, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: Plant Sisyrinchium Campestre in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant the plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Sisyrinchium Campestre is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sisyrinchium Campestre is generally not affected by pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Make sure to plant the plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Sisyrinchium Campestre is native to North America and can be found in the prairies, meadows, and open woods of the United States and Canada. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sisyrinchium Campestre a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Sisyrinchium Campestre is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow.
Q: How often should I water Sisyrinchium Campestre?
A: Water the plant occasionally during dry spells, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Sisyrinchium Campestre be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Sisyrinchium Campestre can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining.
Q: How do I propagate Sisyrinchium Campestre?
A: Sisyrinchium Campestre can be propagated by dividing the clumps in early spring.
Related Plants
- Sisyrinchium angustifolium
- Sisyrinchium atlanticum
- Sisyrinchium bellum
References
- “Sisyrinchium Campestre.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279071. Accessed 23 May 2021.
- “Sisyrinchium Campestre (Prairie Blue-Eyed Grass).” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/pr_blueeyedgrass.htm. Accessed 23 May 2021.
- “Sisyrinchium Campestre.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/5466/prairie-blue-eyed-grass/. Accessed 23 May 2021.
