Amsonia ciliata

Blue Star is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the dogbane family (Apocynaceae) native to the southeast and west to Texas. It is generally found in sandy soils, where it does best. The Genus name honors Dr. John Amson, an English physician and amateur botanist who lived and worked in Williamsburg, Virginia during the colonial period. Specific epithet means hairy-margined in reference to the fringe of hairs found on new leaves and plant stems

It typically grows to 1-2’ tall but can be pruned back to 8"-10" above the ground after it flowers to help give it a more compact rounded shape. Blue Star prefers sandy very well-drained soils in full sun but tolerates light shade. Too much shade will cause flopping of the flower stem and poor fall color.  Propagate by root cuttins and seed.

In addition to its lovely star-shaped blue spring flowers, the foliage adds an airiness to the summer garden and turns yellow in the fall. For the longest-lasting flowers, give the plant some afternoon shade. Fall color is best when grown in full sun. 

Use the plant in groups or borders in pollinator, cottage or rock gardens.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No significant insect or disease problems.