The Story
Plant Bio
Amsonia tabernaemontana is known for its beautiful blue flowers and attractive foliage that turns yellow in the fall.
This species is noted for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in clay soils.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate once established
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a well-draining soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into the soil in early spring or fall.
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Provide full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during propagation.
- Transplant seedlings or established plants in spring after frost.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and ensure adequate sunlight for best flowering results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Monitor regularly for pests and diseases
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
- Do not neglect soil drainage
- Avoid excessive fertilization which can lead to leggy growth
- Refrain from disturbing roots during transplanting
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Bluestar questions
What zones can Bluestar grow in?
Bluestar is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Bluestar deer resistant?
Yes — Bluestar is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Bluestar bloom?
Bluestar 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 Bluestar need full sun?
Bluestar does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Bluestar drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Bluestar handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Amsonia to compare
Blue Star Amsonia
Amsonia tabernaemontana 'Blue Star'
Storm Cloud Blue Star
Amsonia tabernaemontana 'Storm Cloud'
Arkansas Blue Star
Amsonia hubrichtii
Blue Ice Amsonia
Amsonia orientalis 'Blue Ice'
Blue Ice Bluestar
Amsonia tabernaemontana 'Glacier Blue'
Willowleaf Blue Star
Amsonia tabernaemontana 'Willowleaf Blue Star'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Bluestar 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.