Narrowleaf Blue Star

One of the most dramatic perennials that you can plant is Narrowleaf Blue Star. Tiny pale blue, star shaped flowers bloom at the tips of long branches covered in willow-like, green foliage. During the summer that dense foliage contrasts with other broad-leaved perennials or shrubs. In the fall is when Blue Star really lets loose. The intense golden orange of the leaves and branches absolutely glows. Narrowleaf Blue Star would be great as a specimen plant in the middle of a garden or dramatically planted as a group of 3 or 5 at the sunny edge of a woodland garden. This herbaceous perennial is deer resistant and resistant to most diseases. The stems can be cut for the flower or the foliage and make a great filler for an autumnal arrangement. Either spring perennials or fall blooming perennials make great companion plants. Autumn Joy Sedum, Aster, Iris and Daylilies are just a few ideas. Narrowleaf Blue Star Care This rapid growing perennial has very few specific requirements. Blue Star grows well in poor soil or enriched soil. The pH is best at a neutral level. A mostly sunny location will help the amount of blooms in spring, although part shade is well tolerated. Well drained soil is a must for this perennial to survive cold winters. Once it is established, Narrowleaf Blue Star is very drought resistant. This plant dies completely to the ground during the winter and needs no maintenance until growth begins in the early spring. Cleaning up the old stems and foliage will make way for the rapid regrowth. A mulching of organic compost in the fall will help to feed the soil and improve the water holding capacity over time. A slow release fertilizer can be applied every couple of years to boost fertility. Dividing of Amsonia can be done every 3-4 years if there is a slowing in the amount of blooms. Chopping the root ball into sections is the quickest way to multiply your plants and reinvigorate growth. Narrowleaf Blue Star Spacing Perennials can be planted closer together than shrubs or trees, as a rule. The Narrowleaf Blue Star reaches a mature height and width of 3 feet. Planting groups at a spacing of 30 inches, center on center, is recommended.