Etymology: Sisyrinchium: Greek sys for pig; rynchos for snout; referring to a pig grubbing the roots for food
Plants: erect, perennial, 4"-16" tall forb, pale green, smooth, lightening when dry to a yellow-green or olive; stems distinctly winged, not wiry, up to 1/8" wide, unbranched
Leaves: narrow, almost as wide as the stems, smooth
Flowers: white to pale blue, 6-parted, 1/2" - 1" wide, tepal bases yellow, tips rounded to notched with a sharp point; inflorescence of 1 cluster near the top of the stem surrounded by usually stalkless, green to purplish spathes that are usually not connected at the base, outer sheath 3/4"-2" long; blooms May-July
Fruits: small, roundish, light to dark brown capsule
Habitat: dry to moderate moisture; meadows, prairies, open woods
Conservation Status: Native

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 7 Atlas of the Wisconsin Prairie and Savanna Flora: by T.S. Cochrane & H.H. Iltis: habitat, distribution infomation / flowering and fruiting times USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key