Dark Knight Caryopteris
Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Dark Knight'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
24 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Garden origin
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Dark Knight' is a deciduous shrub with aromatic, grey-green foliage and clusters of deep violet-blue flowers that bloom in late summer to autumn, attracting pollinators. This cultivar is distinguished by its intensely dark, almost blackish-blue flower clusters, providing striking color contrast and visual interest in late-season garden borders.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck cuttings into moist soil in spring, keep moist for 6 weeks.
- Select a well-drained site with full sun exposure.
- Water regularly during first growing season to establish roots.
- Prune back in early spring to encourage dense growth.
- Fertilize with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during prolonged dry spells 🌱
- Prune in early spring to maintain shape ✂️
- Apply a balanced fertilizer annually
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy pruning after late summer
- Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen in late season
- Ignore pests; monitor regularly
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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
Dark Knight Caryopteris questions
What zones can Dark Knight Caryopteris grow in?
Dark Knight Caryopteris is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Dark Knight Caryopteris deer resistant?
Yes — Dark Knight Caryopteris is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Dark Knight Caryopteris bloom?
Dark Knight Caryopteris typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Dark Knight Caryopteris need full sun?
Dark Knight Caryopteris does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Dark Knight Caryopteris drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Dark Knight Caryopteris handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Caryopteris to compare
'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard
Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Longwood Blue'
Bluebeard Caryopteris
Caryopteris x clandonensis 'First Choice'
Pavilion Pink Bluebeard
Caryopteris incana 'Pavilion Pink'
Bluebeard
Caryopteris divaricata
Pavilion Blue Bluebeard
Caryopteris incana 'Pavilion Blue'
Sunshine Blue II Bluebeard
Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Sunshine Blue II'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Dark Knight Caryopteris 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.
