Arkansas Amsonia Amsonia hubrichtii

Blue star is an uncommon herbaceous perennial in the dogbane (Apocynaceae) family. It is native to the Ouachita Mountains in central Arkansas and Oklahoma, where it was discovered in the early 1940s by Leslie Hubricht. A slow grower, it may take 1 to 2 years before this plant's true beauty can be seen. It forms erect clumps with feathery green foliage, making it an excellent backdrop for low-growing annuals and perennials. 

In the spring it produces clusters of blue star-like flowers followed by slender, elongated seed pods. It is prized for its great fine texture and bright yellow fall color.

Blue star is easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. It will tolerate poor soils and some drought. The plant will become floppy if grown in too much shade or too rich soils. Use in borders, rock gardens, open woodlands, and in mass plantings.

Named perennial of the year in 2011 by the Perennial Plant Association.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  No serious insect or disease problems. Plants can flop over with too much shade, so cut back after flowering.  Caution should be used when cutting back, as the milky white sap can cause skin irritation.  

VIDEO created by Andy Pulte for “Landscape Plant Identification, Taxonomy and Morphology” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee.