
Gold Crest Bluebeard
Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Gold Crest'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
24 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
A compact and aromatic deciduous shrub known for its vibrant golden foliage and blue flowers. Gold Crest is notable for its striking gold variegation on the leaves, making it a standout in gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-drained soil.
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into soil after the last frost for best germination.
- Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots.
- Mist cuttings to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune in early spring to shape and encourage new growth.
Pro Tip
Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to shape after flowering
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Monitor for pests regularly
Don't
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy fertilization late in the season
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
- Ignore signs of powdery mildew
- Plant in poorly drained soil
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
Gold Crest Bluebeard questions
What zones can Gold Crest Bluebeard grow in?
Gold Crest Bluebeard is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Gold Crest Bluebeard deer resistant?
Yes — Gold Crest Bluebeard is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Gold Crest Bluebeard bloom?
Gold Crest Bluebeard typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Gold Crest Bluebeard need full sun?
Gold Crest Bluebeard does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Gold Crest Bluebeard drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Gold Crest 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'

'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard
Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Longwood Blue'

Bluebeard
Caryopteris divaricata

Pavilion Pink Bluebeard
Caryopteris incana 'Pavilion Pink'

Pavilion Blue Bluebeard
Caryopteris incana 'Pavilion Blue'

Beekeeper Bluebeard
Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Beekeeper'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Gold Crest 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.
