Amsonia tabernaemontana, commonly known as Bluestar, is a native perennial found in prairies, open woodlands, and along riverbanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to light shade.
This plant features narrow, lance-shaped green leaves and clusters of star-shaped, pale blue flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, while the foliage turns a vibrant golden yellow in the fall, adding seasonal interest. It is also deer-resistant and low-maintenance.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Amsonia tabernaemontana is an excellent addition to pollinator gardens, prairie plantings, and naturalized landscapes, offering beautiful blooms, striking fall color, and ecological benefits.
Amsonia tabernaemontana, commonly known as Bluestar, is a native perennial found in prairies, open woodlands, and along riverbanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to light shade.
This plant features narrow, lance-shaped green leaves and clusters of star-shaped, pale blue flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, while the foliage turns a vibrant golden yellow in the fall, adding seasonal interest. It is also deer-resistant and low-maintenance.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Amsonia tabernaemontana is an excellent addition to pollinator gardens, prairie plantings, and naturalized landscapes, offering beautiful blooms, striking fall color, and ecological benefits.
Bloom: mid-spring to early summer
Habitats: borders of streams; gravelly seeps; limestone glades; moist sandy meadows; rocky woodlands; shaded rocky ravines
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist
Plant type (height): forb (2 to 4 feet)
Requirements: full sun to light shade
Soil: clay-loam; rocky material; sand
