shrub

Sunshine Blue Bluebeard

Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Jason'

The Story

Plant Bio

Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Jason' is a deciduous shrub renowned for its aromatic, bright golden-yellow foliage and clusters of vibrant blue flowers that bloom in late summer to autumn, attracting pollinators.

This cultivar is distinguished by its compact growth habit and particularly intense, vivid blue flower heads, making it a striking addition to borders and wildlife gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides vibrant blue blooms and aromatic foliage, enhancing garden aesthetics.
Practical UsesDrought tolerant, requiring minimal watering once established.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.
SpeciesCaryopteris x clandonensisBluebeard

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

Moderate once established

Humidity

Prefers well-drained conditions

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Hybrid origin

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

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In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck cuttings in moist soil for propagation, takes 6 weeks.
  2. Plant in well-drained soil with full sun exposure.
  3. Water regularly during first growing season.
  4. Prune after flowering to maintain shape.
  5. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Fertilize in early spring with balanced fertilizer.

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 blooming to maintain shape
  • Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
  • Avoid heavy fertilization in late season
  • Don’t prune in late fall to prevent winter damage

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged hedgeButterfly-friendly borderDrought-tolerant shrub

Companion Plants

Lavender SalviaRussian sage SedumYarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sunshine Blue Bluebeard questions

What zones can Sunshine Blue Bluebeard grow in?

Sunshine 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 Sunshine Blue Bluebeard deer resistant?

Yes — Sunshine Blue Bluebeard is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Sunshine Blue Bluebeard bloom?

Sunshine Blue Bluebeard 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 Sunshine Blue Bluebeard need full sun?

Sunshine Blue Bluebeard does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Sunshine Blue Bluebeard drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sunshine Blue Bluebeard handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Sunshine 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.