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eastern bluestar

Scientific Name: Amsonia tabernaemontana var. salicifolia

Family: Apocynaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Eastern Bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana)

Eastern Bluestar, scientifically known as Amsonia tabernaemontana, is a beloved perennial known for its elegant pale blue, star-shaped flowers that bloom from spring to midsummer. Its ease of cultivation, attractive foliage, and striking growth habit make it a popular choice for gardens.

Common Names

  • Eastern Bluestar
  • Woodland Blue Star
  • Willow Amsonia
  • Blue Dogbane
  • Bluestar

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Amsonia tabernaemontana Walter
  • Family: Apocynaceae (Dogbane Family)
  • Genus: Amsonia
  • Species: Amsonia tabernaemontana
  • Varieties:
    • Amsonia tabernaemontana var. tabernaemontana
    • Amsonia tabernaemontana var. salicifolia

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the southern and southeastern United States and northern Mexico. Its natural range does not extend to New England.
  • Typically found in moist slope forests and floodplain forests.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Erect-stemmed perennial, typically growing to 1-3 feet tall, forming large clumps.
  • Can form a mound up to 4 feet tall and 4 feet in diameter.
  • Stems are smooth and leafy, with light green foliage.
  • Leaves are elongated, lance-shaped, and light green, resembling willow leaves.
  • Features clusters of pale blue, star-shaped flowers.
  • Deciduous plant.
  • Foliage turns golden-yellow in the fall.