Overview

Amsonia tabernaemontana var. salicifolia 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 tabernaemontana var. salicifolia grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. It is drought resistant. It is native to Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina and Oklahoma.

About

Amsonia tabernaemontana var. salicifolia, known as eastern bluestar, is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the Apocynaceae family. It grows to a height of 0.5 to 1 metre with a spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full size within 2 to 5 years. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and is adaptable to a range of soil types and pH levels, preferring moist but well-drained conditions. It is drought resistant and can be grown in both exposed and sheltered positions, making it versatile for various garden aspects.

About the genus

Amsonia is a genus of flowering plants in the dogbane family, Apocynaceae, first described as a genus in 1788. It is native primarily to North America with one species in East Asia and another in the eastern Mediterranean. It was named in honor of the American physician John Amson.

Wikipedia contributors, "Amsonia", CC BY-SA 4.0Amsonia

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, East-facing, South-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered

Plant details

Amsonia tabernaemontana var. salicifolia 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
Native to
Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Amsonia tabernaemontana var. salicifolia?

Amsonia tabernaemontana var. salicifolia prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Amsonia tabernaemontana var. salicifolia need?

Amsonia tabernaemontana var. salicifolia 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 big does Amsonia tabernaemontana var. salicifolia grow?

Amsonia tabernaemontana var. salicifolia 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.

More in the Amsonia genus

Browse all Amsonia

Last updated