About
Amsonia tabernaemontana, the eastern bluestar, is a tufted, clump-forming perennial with many erect stems bearing small, oval to lance-shaped, rich green leaves. Dense, rounded clusters of pale, sky-blue, star-shaped flowers are produced from late spring into midsummer. The foliage turns a brilliant golden-yellow in autumn, adding a further season of interest. A reliable and beautiful border perennial for a sunny or lightly shaded position.
About the genus
Amsonia, the bluestars, are clump-forming perennials with milky sap, lance-shaped leaves and terminal panicles of small, star-shaped, blue flowers in spring and summer. They are valued both for their clouds of blue flowers and for their excellent, bright golden-yellow autumn foliage colour.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Prairie planting
Native toC & E USA
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun, although it can tolerate partial shade and is fairly drought-tolerant
PruningCut back in late autumn
PropagationPropagate 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 resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free