Arkansas Blue Star

Plant of the Week May 16, 2022

Amsonia hubrichtii

By Jeanette Siddons, Anoka County Master Gardener

Amsonia hubrichtii is in the dogbane family (Apocynaceae). It is native to the midwest and southern states. Common names are Arkansas blue star or thread leaf blue star.

 Many gardeners are looking for native, low-maintenance, small shrubs like Arkansas blue star.  This plant grows like a shrub, about two to three feet tall and wide. It is not a true shrub though. It is a herbaceous perennial, which means it dies back to the ground every winter. Needle-like leaves cover the stems which feel very soft and silky. Beautiful light blue star-shaped petals bloom from late spring to early summer. After blooming, Arkansas blue star grows quickly. To keep it more compact, cut it back after blooming. It turns a beautiful golden yellow in the fall. Mass plantings would be a head turner! Good companion plants include tall sedums, perennial hibiscus, asters, and mums.

 Hardiness zone: 4-9 

Flowers: light blue, five petals, 1/2 inch, star-shaped 

Part sun/full sun (too much shade will cause the plant to be floppy) 

Poor to average soil (too rich will cause the plant to be floppy)

 Rabbit and deer resistant and mostly pest-free. No deadheading is necessary. 

Its milky white sap can be irritating, so it’s best practice to use gloves when pruning. Well-draining soil is a must, as the roots don't like to stand in water.

IMAGE BY F.D. RICHARDS FROM HTTPS://FLICKR.COM/PHOTOS/50697352@N00/51199303687