Description
This cultivar of Blue Star, Amsonia x Blue Ice, is an herbaceous perennial with lavender-blue flowers in the dogbane family. Although the origin of this Amsonia hybrid is uncertain, the foliage and flowers resemble most A. tabernaemontana, with the main difference being that ‘Blue Ice’ is more compact, has darker blue flowers, and a longer bloom period, from late spring through summer. The stems contain a toxic milky sap which helps deter deer and rabbits. The foliage remains attractive in summer and turns a brilliant yellow in fall. This hybrid does best in moist but well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Established, mature plants are fairly drought tolerant. The ‘Blue Ice’ hybrid makes an excellent border plant or can be paired in groups in the perennial garden or woodland edges.
Photo: K. Andre, North Carolina Plant Toolbox
