Amsonia 'Blue Ice' is a compact and floriferous selection of bluestar with intensely colored periwinkle blue flowers and clean mounded foliage. It holds its color and shape longer into summer than most Amsonia, and its fall foliage turns a rich golden yellow offering multi season appeal without flopping.
Height & Spread: 12 - 15 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late spring
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Well drained, moderately fertile soils
Watering Needs: Low to moderate
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
Though not a naturally occurring species, this cultivar is derived from native Amsonia tabernaemontana and retains many native traits and benefits.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Supports butterflies such as Monarchs and Spring Azures with nectar from mid spring blooms.
Bees
- Attracts mason bees, bumblebees, and other spring active pollinators.
Moths
- Host plant for caterpillars of the Snowberry Clearwing and other day flying sphinx moths.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow for natural mounding and light air flow.
Landscape Placement
- Best used in low borders, naturalistic groupings, or near walkways where its compact form and extended interest can be appreciated.
Companion Plants
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' (Wood Sage) - Adds vertical texture and a vivid purple accent to spring combinations.
- Heuchera villosa (Coral Bells) - Offers foliage contrast and mid height structure with delicate summer blooms.
- Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender) - Adds a shrubby texture and fragrant silver foliage that balances the shape of Amsonia.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' (Tickseed) - Brings bright yellow color and a fine leaf texture that harmonizes well.
- Erigeron karvinskianus (Santa Barbara Daisy) - Provides low growing white and pink daisy blooms that soften edges around Amsonia mounds.