Threadleaf Bluestar (Amsonia hubrichtii)

Threadleaf Bluestar is an herbaceous perennial that forms bushy clumps up to 3 feet tall and wide. The stems are densely covered with soft, narrow, needle-like leaves that create a ferny appearance. The willowy, medium to dark green leaves turn a brilliant golden yellow color in the fall. Terminal clusters of steel blue buds and small, light blue flowers are produced in late spring and early summer.

It makes a perfect backdrop for lower growing annuals and perennials, and late summer and fall bloomers including asters, mums and tall sedums, especially when grown in masses. It’s spectacular fall color is one of its best features.

This low maintenance perennial does best in full sun, but will also grow in partial shade. It will be lanky and may flop over if grown in rich soil or too much shade, and fall color will not be as intense in shady conditions. It is not picky about soil type, thriving in everything from sand to clay, but does not like to remain wet. It may be slow to establish and may not look very impressive in the first year or two, but is long-lived and mostly pest free. It is not favored by deer or rabbits.

Fall Color; Attracts: 🐝
Light: full sun to part shade
Soil: dry, medium, or wet, well-drained