Eastern Bluestar Amsonia tabernaemontana var. tabernaemontana

Bluestar is a native herbaceous perennial that is found most often in wet, sandy, rich, open and rocky woods and thickets. It has an erect, clump-forming growth pattern. Clusters of 3/4", light blue, star-like flowers open in late spring atop erect, leafy stems. Its narrow, willow-shaped, dull green foliage may turn yellow in fall. The plant can be cut close to the ground or left for winter interest.

Grows best in full sun. Where this is not possible, the plant may need to be staked due to its floppy form. Cutting the stems back after flowing will create a more rounded, neater appearance.  

Drought tolerant once established.

One of our most beautiful native species, bluestar makes a delicate display from the mountains to the coast. The light blue flowers are followed by elongated, pod-like fruits containing hard, black seeds that can be used for propagation. This plant is resistant to damage by deer and other herbivores due to the foliage containing a toxic white latex.

When propagating by seed, the seedlings will germinate quickly, but the plant will not flower until the second year. Division can be accomplished in spring or fall when the plant is dormant, ensuring that each division has at least one eye. Deadhead to prevent self-seeding.

This plant was selected as the 2006 NC Wildflower of the Year, a program managed by the North Carolina Botanical Garden with some financial support from the Garden Club of North Carolina.

Insects, Diseases, or Other Plant Problems:  Rust may occur.

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.