About
This perennial forms dense clumps and can reach a height of approximately 1.2 meters. Its slender, glossy green foliage is edged with fine, soft hairs. In early summer, the plant produces clusters of pale blue, star-shaped blooms at the ends of its stems. As autumn approaches, the leaves transition to vibrant shades of golden yellow and purple.
About the genus
Amsonia consists of perennial plants that grow in clumps and produce a milky sap. They feature elongated, lanceolate leaves and bear clusters of small, star-like blue blooms at the tips during the spring and summer months.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Bushy, Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 1-1.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Thrives in most moist but well drained soils. In warmer areas, flowers may last better in light or afternoon shade, but autumn colour is best in full sun.
- Pruning
- Cut back in late winter before spring growth appears. Plants may be trimmed back after flowering to maintain a compact shape
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in spring, or by softwood or basal cuttings in early summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free