Amsonia , commonly known as profane star , is a genus of recurrent plants that are native to North America . These plants are known for their delicateblue flowersthat bloom in late spring or early summertime . They are also value for their attractive foliage , which can crop from promising green to cryptical blue - viridity . One of the most common questions ask by gardeners is whether amsonia prefers full Dominicus or shade .
The answer to this interrogation is that it depends on the specific species of genus Amsonia . Some species , such as Amsonia hubrichtii , prefer full sunshine and will not thrive in shade . Other specie , such as Amsonia tabernaemontana , can digest some shade but will still perform best in full sun . It is important to research the specific species of amsonia that you are concerned in growing to set its sun and refinement preference .
Cultivation and Care
Planting and Soil Requirements
Amsonia is a low - maintenance plant life that is easy to mature with the right soil condition . It prefer well - draining grunge that is enrich with compost or constitutional matter . The idealistic soil pH for genus Amsonia is between 6.0 and 7.0 . When planting , make trusted the dirt is moist , but not waterlogged .
Sunlight and Temperature
Amsonia flourish in full sun to fond shade . It favor a hot and humid climate , but can permit cooler temperatures as well . In hot climates , it is good to provide some good afternoon specter to forestall scorching .
Watering and Fertilization
Amsonia is a drought - kind flora that require regular watering during the first growing season to found a strong root system . After that , it can be left to fend for itself . If you want to fertilize your amsonia , utilize a slow - release fertilizer in the fountain .
Pruning and Maintenance
Amsonia is a low - upkeep industrial plant that require piddling pruning . Deadheading spend efflorescence will encourage more bloom to grow . If your amsonia becomes too big or overcrowded , you may divide it in the spring . Amsonia is generally disease and pesterer - resistant , but keep an middle out for worm such as aphids and spider mites .
Varieties and Landscape Uses
Common Varieties
Amsonia is a genus of about 20 species of flowering plants in the dogbane kinsfolk . The most commonly grown species are the blue star ( Amsonia tabernaemontana ) , the easterly blue star ( Amsonia tabernaemontana var . salicifolia ) , and the Arkansas blue genius ( Amsonia hubrichtii ) . The aristocratical star is the most widely dole out metal money , while the eastern blue star is aboriginal to the southeastern United States and the Arkansas blue asterisk is native to Arkansas and Oklahoma .
Design and Companion Plants
Amsonia is a various flora that can be used in a variety of garden design . It is a great choice for meadow and thickets , as well as for borders and mass plantings . It also works well in containers and pot . The blue star topology is especially well - suit for garden invention , as it has a farseeing blooming point and attractive foliage that release yellow in the pin .
Amsonia can be paired with a mixed bag of flora to produce interesting and attractive combinations . It see heavy with sedum , which has a like growth habit and complements the blue star ’s drear flowers with its yellow bloom . Other effective companion plant include coneflower , black - eyed susans , and coreopsis .
When design with genus Amsonia , it is authoritative to consider its top and spreading . The disconsolate virtuoso typically grows to be 2 - 3 feet tall and wide , while the easterly blue star can progress to up to 4 feet magniloquent and all-embracing . The Arkansas blue whizz is smaller , grow to be 1 - 2 feet tall and all-embracing . These plants are well used in areas where they have room to spread out and wo n’t be crowded by other flora .
Overall , genus Amsonia is a great pick for gardeners looking for a low - maintenance , attractive plant that can be used in a variety show of garden designs . With its beautiful down in the mouth bloom , attractive foliation , and versatility , it is sure to be a welcome addition to any garden .
