Eastern Bluestar
Amsonia tabernaemontana
General Information
Eastern Bluestar is an easy-to-grow, herbaceous perennial with an upright or rounded, clumping growth habit.
Eastern Bluestar is typically found in thickets or in open and rocky woods. It prefers rich and wet loamy or sandy soils but is adaptable. Some drought is tolerated.
Eastern Bluestar has clusters of showy 3/4", light blue, star-like flowers that generally open in April or May. It makes a good cut flower.
Plant Information
Plant Type:
Herbaceous perennial
Sun Preference:
Full Sun * Part Sun
Soil Moisture Preference:
Medium * Medium-Wet
Plant Height:
2 to 3 feet
Plant Width:
2 to 3 feet
Plant Spacing:
2 to 3 feet
Flower Color:
Blue
Flower timing:
April and May
Culture Information:
The best locations to plant Eastern Bluestar include containers, meadows, open woodlands and other naturalized areas. It is best used in informal settings, and works well in Butterfly Gardens, Cottage Gardens, Fairy Gardens, Native Gardens, Pollinator Gardens, Rain Gardens, Shade Gardens.
It prefers moist soil, so supplemental watering every week or two is advised during periods of drought.
As with most perennials, Eastern Bluestar can be cut to the ground after the first freeze or left until late winter for winter interest. Deadheading to prevent self-seeding is the best management strategy to control its spread. Staking and pruning are not typically required when Eastern Bluestar is grown in full sun.
Tolerates:
Drought (once established)
Deer
Clay soil
Pests & Disease:
Eastern Bluestar typically has no serious insect problems. It also doesn’t usually have serious disease problems, but rust sometimes occurs
The foliage containing a toxic white latex.
Wildlife Use:
Pollinators: Carpenter bees, hummingbird moths, and butterflies (like Mourning Cloak) feed on the nectar of Eastern Bluestar.
Birds: Hummingbirds also feed on nectar.
Mammals: Eastern Bluestar is resistant to damage by deer and other herbivores. The foliage containing a toxic white latex.
Other: No information.
Native to:
More Information:
NC State Plant Database:
Missouri Botanical Garden:
TN-KY Plant Atlas
Other Link: