Species
Caryopteris x clandonensisBluebeard10 other cultivars
‘First Choice’Bluebeard Caryopteris
‘Longwood Blue’'Longwood Blue' Bluebeard
‘Sunshine Blue II’Sunshine Blue II Bluebeard
‘Beekeeper’Beekeeper Bluebeard
‘Worcester Gold’Worcester Gold Caryopteris
‘Blue Mist’Blue Mist Caryopteris
‘Dark Knight’Dark Knight Caryopteris
‘Beyond Midnight’Beyond Midnight Bluebeard
‘Gold Crest’Gold Crest Bluebeard
‘Sapphire Surf’Sapphire Surf Bluebeard
The Story
Plant Bio
Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Summer Sorbet' is a deciduous shrub recognized for its aromatic, grey-green foliage and clusters of small, tubular blue flowers that bloom in late summer to autumn, attracting pollinators.
This cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant, soft pastel-blue flowers and its compact, bushy growth habit, making it an attractive low-maintenance addition to borders and pollinator gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
24 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets
Bloom period
Late summer – Late fall
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck young plants into well-draining soil in spring.
- Water regularly until established, then reduce watering.
- Prune in early spring to maintain shape and encourage blooms.
- Fertilize with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Mist cuttings in summer to encourage root development.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for best blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water young plants regularly 🌱
- Prune after flowering to shape the shrub
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy fertilization late in the season
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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
Summer Sorbet Caryopteris questions
What zones can Summer Sorbet Caryopteris grow in?
Summer Sorbet Caryopteris 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 Summer Sorbet Caryopteris deer resistant?
Yes — Summer Sorbet Caryopteris is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Summer Sorbet Caryopteris bloom?
Summer Sorbet Caryopteris 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 Summer Sorbet Caryopteris need full sun?
Summer Sorbet Caryopteris does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Summer Sorbet Caryopteris drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Summer Sorbet Caryopteris 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'
Sunshine Blue II Bluebeard
Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Sunshine Blue II'
Beekeeper Bluebeard
Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Beekeeper'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Summer Sorbet Caryopteris 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.