'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard
Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Longwood Blue'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
36 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Cultivated hybrid of Asian species
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Caryopteris x clandonensis, known as Bluebeard, is a deciduous shrub with aromatic, grey-green foliage and clusters of vibrant blue flowers that bloom in late summer to early autumn, attracting pollinators. The Longwood Blue cultivar is distinguished by its particularly intense and vibrant blue flower clusters, which maintain their color longer than other varieties, making it a striking addition to borders.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
- Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
- Prune lightly in early spring to promote bushiness.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring.
- Place in full sun for best flowering.
- 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 dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Apply a balanced fertilizer annually
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Heavy pruning in fall ❌
- Use high-nitrogen fertilizer late in season ❌
- Allow soil to remain soggy ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prune |
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
'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard questions
What zones can 'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard grow in?
'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard 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 'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard deer resistant?
Yes — 'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does 'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard bloom?
'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does 'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard need full sun?
'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is 'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), 'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Caryopteris to compare
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'
Blue Mist Caryopteris
Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Blue Mist'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow 'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard 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.
