Amsonia hubrichtii (Narrowleaf Bluestar)

Native to Arkansas, Amsonia hubrichtii (Narrowleaf Bluestar) is an erect, clump-forming perennial which provides 3 seasons of interest with its starry blue flowers in spring, its bright green summer foliage, and its charming fall color. This Blue Star features loose terminal clusters, up to 5 in. long (12 cm), of delicate, pale blue, star-shaped flowers borne on upright stems in late spring – early summer. They rise above the graceful foliage of soft-textured, needle-like, bright green leaves that pleasantly colors up to bright golden-yellow in fall. It makes an excellent backdrop for fall-blooming perennials such as sedums and garden mums.

• Winner of the GreatPlants award, which is a joint effort between the Nebraska Nursery, Landscape Association, and the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum. Named Perennial Plant of the Year in 2011 by the Perennial Plant Association.
• Grows up to 24-36 in. tall and wide (60-90 cm) in an outstanding plant form that provides structure throughout the season.
• Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun or part shade. The best fall foliage color is obtained in full sun. This plant tends to open up and flop in too much shade. Will tolerate some drought.
• Undemanding and virtually pest-free and disease-free, Narrowleaf Bluestar is a welcomed addition to borders, rock gardens, cottage gardens, prairies, or woodland gardens. Best visual impact in mass plantings.
• Attracts butterflies but is deer resistant.
• Cut back by 6 in. (15 cm) after flowering to keep the plant upright and shape it into a nice foliage mound.
• Contact with the milky sap may cause skin irritation.
• Native to Arkansas, Oklahoma.