Arkansas Blue Star
Amsonia hubrichtii
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate once established, drought tolerant
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southern United States
Toxicity
Low toxicity if ingested; sap can cause skin irritation
The Story
Plant Bio
Amsonia hubrichtii, commonly known as Hubricht's Blue Star, is known for its fine, needle-like foliage that turns a brilliant golden-yellow in the fall. This species is particularly valued for its stunning fall color and its ability to thrive in a variety of soil types, including clay.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water regularly until established, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Prune back in late winter to promote bushier growth and maintain shape.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or late fall for propagation.
- Apply a layer of mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-draining soil and full sun for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to shape the plant
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Fertilize in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't prune in late fall or winter
- Steer clear of heavy, clay soils without amendment
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| 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
Arkansas Blue Star questions
What zones can Arkansas Blue Star grow in?
Arkansas Blue Star 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 Arkansas Blue Star deer resistant?
Yes — Arkansas Blue Star is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Arkansas Blue Star bloom?
Arkansas Blue Star typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Arkansas Blue Star need full sun?
Arkansas Blue Star does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Arkansas Blue Star drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Arkansas Blue Star handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Amsonia to compare
Storm Cloud Blue Star
Amsonia tabernaemontana 'Storm Cloud'
Blue Star Amsonia
Amsonia tabernaemontana 'Blue Star'
Bluestar
Amsonia tabernaemontana
Blue Ice Amsonia
Amsonia orientalis 'Blue Ice'
Blue Ice Bluestar
Amsonia tabernaemontana 'Glacier Blue'
Blue Star Amsonia
Amsonia ciliata
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Arkansas Blue Star 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.
