Amsonia tabernaemontana commonly called eastern bluestar or willow bluestar, is native to portions of the eastern and southern United States where it is found in moist woodlands, stream banks, slopes, ditches, and open fields. An erect, clump-forming plant which features clusters of soft light blue, star-like flowers in late spring atop erect, leafy stems growing 2-3′ tall. Narrow, willow-shaped, dull green foliage may turn an attractive yellow in fall. Stems and leaves produce a milky latex when cut or torn which protects the plant from herbivory. The blooms are attractive to butterflies and other insect pollinators. Try it in borders, rock gardens, cottage gardens, open woodland areas, rain gardens. Best when massed. Flowers can be used in fresh cut arrangements.

A Northern Sunset Perennial, it prefers any, moist to well-drained soil in full sun to part sun.

Image courtesy of Walters Gardens