Amsonia illustris, commonly known as Ozark Bluestar, is a striking long lived perennial prized for its shimmering willow like foliage and clusters of blue star shaped flowers. Its three season appeal and low maintenance make it an excellent choice for native and pollinator gardens.
Height & Spread: 2 - 3 ft x 2 - 3 ft
Bloom Time: Late Spring (May to June)
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Prefers moist, well drained soils but tolerates clay and average garden soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Highly deer resistant due to its milky sap
NATIVE STATUS
Native to the central and southeastern United States, particularly in regions like Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. It is well suited to North American native plant gardens and restoration projects.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts swallowtails and other nectar seeking butterflies during bloom season.
Bees
- Supports native solitary bees and honeybees, offering nectar early in the growing season.
Other Insects
- Occasionally visited by beneficial predatory insects that control garden pests.
- Its dense foliage and late season structure may also offer habitat or shelter for overwintering insects.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- Plant 2 - 3 ft apart to allow room for its mounding form and air circulation.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for borders, native prairie style plantings, pollinator gardens, and mass plantings. Also performs well along streams or ponds where soils may remain moist.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - for vibrant color contrast and shared pollinator appeal.
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Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - for complementary texture and fall color.
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Solidago speciosa (Showy Goldenrod) - to extend seasonal bloom time into fall.
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Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - adds height and attracts pollinators.
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Rudbeckia fulgida (Orange Coneflower) - for prolonged flowering and color saturation.