Amsonia tabernaemontana
Common Name: Willow Blue Star, Willow Amsonia
A favorite plant among designers. This native perennial bears pale blue, star-shaped flowers in loose clusters above a short mound of narrow-leaved foliage from late spring to early summer. After blooming, the plant quickly grows to reach a height of about 3 feet.
Amsonia adds a billowy, finely textured element to the landscape. It grows into a dense mass, much like a small shrub. A. tabernaemontana is reported to be hardier than A. hubrectii, to zone 3.
The most valuable feature is its fall color; the entire plant turns a stunning shade of golden orange. It makes an excellent backdrop for fall-blooming perennials.
