Amsonia tabernaemontana

Common Names

Blue Star, Bluestar, Eastern Bluestar, Willow Amsonia, Woodland Blue Star, Blue Dogbane

Summary

Amsonia tabernaemontana, commonly called Bluestar or Eastern blue star, is a North American perennial forming upright clumps with narrow willow-like leaves and dense clusters of pale blue star-shaped flowers in late spring to early summer. It grows about 2–3 feet tall and wide, tolerates full sun to partial shade, and prefers moist, well-drained soil; hardy in USDA zones 3–9 and deer resistant; milky sap may irritate skin.

Propagation is by division or seed, with division in spring or fall and seeds requiring stratification; root softwood cuttings in early summer are also possible. After flowering, prune back about one-third to promote a bushier habit; the plant is generally pest- and disease-free. It suits borders, native plant gardens, prairie plantings, cottage and wildflower gardens, and pollinator habitats.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

2-3 feet

Spread

24-36 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 4-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun; tolerates partial sun to partial shade.

Soil Type

Moist, well-drained loamy soil

Soil Drainage

Moist but well-drained soil

Soil pH

6.2-7.0, slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

Blue

Bloom Time

Spring into Summer

Foliage Color

Green foliage that turns golden yellow in fall.

Fall Foliage Color

Yellow to golden yellow

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Medium growth rate, reaches maturity in about 2–3 years

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, and Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators