Overview

Amsonia hubrichtii is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Amsonia, part of the Apocynaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Amsonia hubrichtii grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is drought resistant. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and prairie planting. It is native to USA (Arkansas and Oklahoma).

About

This perennial grows in clumps and features upright stems adorned with slender, needle-like foliage. In spring and summer, the leaves are a vibrant green, transforming to a rich golden yellow in the fall. During early to mid-summer, the plant produces terminal clusters of dark blue buds that unfurl into light, greyish-blue, star-shaped blooms.

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

Best soil and position for Amsonia

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Amsonia hubrichtii size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting
Native to
USA (Arkansas, Oklahoma)

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Amsonia hubrichtii

Cultivation
Grows best in a fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun, although it can tolerate partial shade and is fairly drought-tolerant
Pruning
Cut back in late autumn
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Alternatively propagate by division in spring or root softwood cuttings in early summer
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Amsonia hubrichtii?

Grows best in a fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun, although it can tolerate partial shade and is fairly drought-tolerant.

Where is the best place to plant Amsonia hubrichtii?

Amsonia hubrichtii prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Amsonia hubrichtii need?

Amsonia hubrichtii is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Amsonia hubrichtii?

Cut back in late autumn.

How big does Amsonia hubrichtii grow?

Amsonia hubrichtii reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Amsonia hubrichtii hardy in the UK?

Amsonia hubrichtii has a UK hardiness rating of H7.

How do I propagate Amsonia hubrichtii?

Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Alternatively propagate by division in spring or root softwood cuttings in early summer.