Threadleaf Bluestar (Amsonia)
Perennial
- Interesting fine-textured foliage!
- Native perennial provides interest from spring through fall.
- Dramatic fall color.
- Attracts butterflies and caterpillars.
- Zones 5-8, sun/part sun, 3′ tall x 3' wide at maturity.
ZONE
EXPOSURE
HEIGHT
Description
Details
Common name: threadleaf bluestar
Zone: 5 - 8
Sun exposure: Full (6+ hrs/day) to part sun (4-6 hrs/day)
Height x width: 3' x 3' tall and wide
Flower color: Light blue
Foliage color: Green
Season of Interest: Spring through fall
Bloom time: Midspring
Features: Suitable for slopes, native, fall color, drought tolerant, deer resistant, container plants
Uses: Groundcover, edging, flower gardens, wildlife gardens, native plant gardens, rain gardens
How to Grow
Light: Flowers best in full sun (> 6 hours sun) but will tolerate part sun (4-6 hours sun) as well.
Water: Average moisture is ideal and will tolerate dry and wet conditions.
Spacing: 2 to 3 feet
Fertilizing: Not required, but if desired, fertilize with an all-purpose garden fertilizer in spring.
Winterizing: No special winter requirements.
Maintenance & pruning: This plant has a naturally petite habit, so pruning is not necessary. However, if you desire a more uniform shape, you can prune just after it's done flowering.
Plant spacing is based on the ultimate width of the plants. This figure is normally given as a range; for example, 3-5’. If you live in a cold climate and/or want plants to fill in more quickly, plan to space at the shorter end of the range. If you live in a warm climate, are on a limited budget, or are willing to wait longer for plants to touch, use the higher end of the range. Using the larger number is recommended when calculating distance from a building or structure. There’s really no such thing as "maximum spacing": if you don’t want your plants to touch, you can space them as far apart as you’d like. All plant spacing is calculated on center, or in other words, the centers of the plants are spaced one half of their eventual width apart:
Unless you are planting in a straight line, as you might for hedges or edging, space your plants in a staggered or zig-zag pattern for a more interesting and naturalistic look:
Not sure just how many plants will fit in your garden? Our calculator gives you the exact amount of plants required for your space. Simply update the values and the calculator will re-calculate accordingly. Spacing information can be found in the 'How to Grow' tab on each plant's page.