Storm Cloud Blue Star
Amsonia tabernaemontana 'Storm Cloud'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
40 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested, skin irritant
The Story
Plant Bio
Amsonia tabernaemontana 'Storm Cloud' is known for its dark green foliage and stunning blue star-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring. The plant has a bushy growth habit and is excellent for borders or as a backdrop in perennial gardens. This cultivar features a more compact habit compared to other forms of Amsonia tabernaemontana, and it turns a striking gold color in the fall, adding seasonal interest.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a well-draining soil with loam or sandy texture.
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into soil in early spring or fall.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during rooting.
- Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to establish roots.
- Transplant seedlings or rooted cuttings after 1 year when they are well-established.
- Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Provide full sun for optimal growth and vibrant foliage color.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant
- Mulch annually to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen fertilizers which can encourage legginess
- Do not disturb roots excessively during pruning
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
Storm Cloud Blue Star questions
What zones can Storm Cloud Blue Star grow in?
Storm Cloud 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 Storm Cloud Blue Star deer resistant?
Yes — Storm Cloud Blue Star is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Storm Cloud Blue Star bloom?
Storm Cloud 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 Storm Cloud Blue Star need full sun?
Storm Cloud Blue Star does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Storm Cloud Blue Star drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Storm Cloud 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
Arkansas Blue Star
Amsonia hubrichtii
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 Storm Cloud 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.
