The Story
Plant Bio
Amsonia tabernaemontana, commonly known as eastern bluestar, is a clump-forming perennial native to the eastern U.S. It features terminal clusters of star-like, light blue flowers in late spring atop erect stems with willow-like, lance-shaped leaves. The foliage remains attractive all summer and turns a brilliant yellow in fall.
A compact cultivar noted for its dense, mounded habit and large, vibrant periwinkle-blue flowers. Its dark green, narrow leaves provide a strong backdrop and turn a brilliant yellow in autumn. More floriferous than the species.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Sap may cause skin irritation; low toxicity if ingested.
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring.
- Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
- Place in full sun for best flowering results.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
- Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture.
Pro Tip
Ensure planting in full sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during first growing season 🌱
- Prune after flowering to promote bushiness
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering during dormant season ❌
- Don’t fertilize late in the season
- Refrain from heavy pruning in fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Eastern Bluestar questions
What zones can Eastern Bluestar grow in?
Eastern Bluestar is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Eastern Bluestar deer resistant?
Yes — Eastern Bluestar is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Eastern Bluestar bloom?
Eastern Bluestar typically blooms in late spring to early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Eastern Bluestar need full sun?
Eastern Bluestar does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Eastern Bluestar drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Eastern Bluestar handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Amsonia to compare
Blue Star Amsonia
Amsonia tabernaemontana 'Blue Star'
Storm Cloud Blue Star
Amsonia tabernaemontana 'Storm Cloud'
Arkansas Blue Star
Amsonia hubrichtii
Bluestar
Amsonia tabernaemontana
Blue Ice Amsonia
Amsonia orientalis 'Blue Ice'
Blue Ice Bluestar
Amsonia tabernaemontana 'Glacier Blue'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Eastern Bluestar with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.