Aunt May Sisyrinchium Sisyrinchium striatum 'Aunt May' (v)

Names

• Family

  Iridaceae

• Synonyms

  Aunt May Stripey, Variegated Satin Flower, Variegated Yellow-Eyed Grass

• Common names

  Sisyrinchium striatum 'Aunt May'

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant commonly known as Aunt May is not widely reported to be toxic to humans. Most members of the Sisyrinchium genus do not have significant toxicity, and there is limited information regarding any notable adverse effects from ingesting this specific cultivar. However, as with any plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities may exist, and it is generally advisable to avoid ingesting parts of ornamental plants due to potential unknown risks.

• To pets

  Aunt May is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. There is a scarcity of detailed information on any specific toxicity this plant may have to pets such as cats and dogs. As with humans, it is prudent to prevent pets from ingesting plants not intended for consumption, as they may cause gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction in some cases. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant and is showing adverse symptoms, it is best to consult with a veterinarian.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Variegated

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  2 feet (0.6 meters)

• Spread

  1 feet (0.3 meters)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  8

• Native area

  South America

General Benefits

• Easy to grow: Sisyrinchium 'Aunt May' is known for its low maintenance requirements, making it suitable for gardeners of all levels.
• Attracts wildlife: It can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden, enhancing biodiversity.
• Drought tolerant: Once established, it is quite tolerant of dry conditions, reducing the need for frequent watering.
• Ornamental value: With its variegated foliage and attractive pale yellow flowers, it adds visual interest to garden borders and beds.
• Compact size: Its relatively small size makes it suitable for rock gardens, front-of-border placements, and container planting.
• Long blooming period: It has a long flowering season, usually from late spring to early summer, offering extended garden appeal.
• Resistant to deer: Typically resistant to grazing by deer, it can be a good choice for areas where deer are a common garden nuisance.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Satin Flower can be used as an accent in pressed flower art because its delicate blooms and slender foliage retain color and shape when dried.
• In photography, Satin Flower provides a soft and subtle background when taking close-up shots of insects or other plants.
• Dried Satin Flower stems can be incorporated into homemade paper, adding texture and visual interest to the final product.
• Satin Flower's striped leaves can be used as a natural stencil for creating patterns in pottery or fabric dyeing projects.
• Its structured form and foliage make Satin Flower a useful plant for teaching botanical illustration and plant structure to students.
• The plant can serve as a seasonal component in a living roof design, contributing to biodiversity and aesthetic variety.
• Young enthusiasts can use Satin Flower in plant biology experiments to study phototropism – the way the plant grows towards light.
• Satin Flower can be used in a sensory garden, providing not only visual texture but also a soft, grass-like feel to the touch.
• When creating a miniature garden or fairy garden, Satin Flower's foliage can represent larger tree or shrub species due to its slender form.
• For ornamental fish ponds or water features, the foliage of Satin Flower can provide shelter for amphibians and beneficial insects.

Feng Shui

Pale Yellow-eyed Grass is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

Pale Yellow-eyed Grass is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Determination: The sturdy nature of the Aunt May reflects the quality of persistence and the ability to thrive in various conditions, often symbolizing determination.
• Adaptability: Known for its resilience and ability to adapt, Aunt May often represents the capacity to thrive in varying environments.
• Modesty: Despite its striking variegated foliage, Aunt May is not ostentatious and can symbolize humility and modesty.
• Charm: The delicate flowers and attractive leaves of Aunt May are associated with enchantment and a subtle allure.
• Purity: The pale yellow to cream flowers of the Aunt May can signify cleanliness, innocence, and new beginnings.