Amsonia Hubrichtii 'Butterscotch' is a compact cultivar known for its finely textured willow like foliage that turns brilliant golden orange in fall. Pale blue star shaped flowers bloom in spring forming clusters above the airy mound. With a tidy habit and exceptional seasonal interest it brings foliage contrast and structure to perennial borders and native plantings.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 24 - 30 in
Bloom Time: Spring
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Average to well drained soil
Watering Needs: Low to moderate
Deer Resistance: Rarely browsed by deer
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from Amsonia hubrichtii, a species native to the south central United States including Arkansas and Oklahoma.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Visited by Swallowtails and other butterflies that are drawn to the nectar of its spring flowers.
Bees
- Provides early nectar for native bumblebees and solitary bees in spring.
Moths
- Supports certain day flying moths as a nectar source and resting habitat within its fine foliage.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 30 in apart to allow for the full fountain like shape and seasonal color display.
Landscape Placement
- Well suited to prairie borders, cottage gardens, and native meadow plantings. Makes an excellent matrix plant with strong seasonal transitions.
Companion Plants
- Allium schoenoprasum (Chives) - Upright blue green foliage and globe like blooms provide form and color contrast in early summer.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' (Wood Sage) - Deep purple vertical blooms contrast sharply with Amsonia’s airy green stems.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Offers bold golden yellow blooms that echo fall foliage colors later in the season.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' (Purple Coneflower) - Extends bloom season into summer with complementary color and strong pollinator presence.
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Adds upright grass structure and fall color that mirrors and enhances Amsonia’s autumn tones.