Caryopteris 'Dark Knight' is a late blooming woody perennial prized for its rich dark blue flowers and soft silvery foliage. Compact and low maintenance, it provides abundant nectar for pollinators in late summer and fall when resources are declining.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: August to October
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, sandy or average soil
Watering Needs: Low; water occasionally during prolonged drought
Deer Resistance: Aromatic foliage deters deer
Native Status
This cultivar is of Asian origin and not native to North America. It is widely grown for ornamental and pollinator friendly landscape use.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts carpenter bees, leafcutter bees, and honeybees late in the season when few other nectar sources are present.
Butterflies
- Visited by Monarchs, Red Admirals, and Skipper species during late summer bloom.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart to accommodate rounded growth and good air circulation.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent for sunny garden borders, pollinator strips, or containers. Use in mass plantings or as a contrasting accent near silver or purple foliage plants.
Companion Plants
- Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender) - Complements Caryopteris with similar soil and sun needs and fragrant foliage.
- Veronica spicata (Spike Speedwell) - Adds early to mid summer bloom interest and vertical structure to front of borders.
- Gaura lindheimeri 'Whirling Butterflies' - Adds airy texture and delicate blooms to contrast with dense Caryopteris form.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' - Provides vibrant yellow contrast and continues blooming through Caryopteris’ peak.
- Artemisia 'Powis Castle' - Offers silvery, finely cut foliage that pairs beautifully with blue flowers.