Bluestar or Amsonia tabernaemontana is a flowering perennial referred to as Blue Dogbane. It produces early bloom, attractive summer foliage and is highly sought for its golden hues emitted in fall. The star-shaped flowers are arranged in clusters and are found atop sturdy stems of the Bluestar. It has a low maintenance character and is naturally resistant to pests and plant diseases. Increasing in popularity across the US, Bluestar is quickly becoming a top choice for sheer beauty and easy maintenance for any American garden.
The Bluestar is a flowering perennial and takes the scientific name Amsonia tabernaemontana. This family classification falls under Apocynaceae, usually called the dogbane family. It is a low growing hardy perennial that is best suited as a ground cover in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8, thriving in moist and loamy soils. Generally, it only grows to an approximate height of 16-18 inches. Bluestar blooms a delicate star-shaped blue flowers arranged in clusters of several blooms. It blooms in spring and then again during an extended fall bloom period, offering gardeners a season of long enjoyment. Such long blooming period adds a beautiful and effortless show to any garden.
How To Plant
A planting location that provides full sun to partial shade is the best option for Bluestar plants. Additionally, it would be necessary to provide moisture-retaining soil quality with a mix of loam, peat and sandy soil exhibiting a pH range of 6.0-7.0. As with many perennial plants, adding organic matter to the soil can further promote strong growth. Blue Star can be planted with ease and any good-quality gardening soil will be sufficient. Additionally, fertilizers should be used during early spring to promote the blooms during the growing season.
Overall, they are fairly low maintenance and need just occasional, gentle pruning to keep the garden alluring.
Meaning and Symbolism
The Bluestar is synonymous of hope, faith and loyalty. Bluestar was often used to decorate the temples of gods in ancient cultures. In addition, many refer to this beautiful flower as the “star of the Nile”, thus demonstrating the biblical meaning of loyalty for the flower. Historians also agree that Bluestar is considered the most beloved flower by lovers, representing constancy in the form of stars in the clear sky.
History, Mythology and Religious Significance
Bluestar has a great historical significance both in mythology and religion. It has been associated with many of the ancients Gods, such as Aphrodite and Adonis, who were kings of beauty and youth. Moreover, Bluestar’s significance is associated with many old religions as an emblem of loyalty and faith. In the Egyptian civilization, it was considered to be the symbol of goddess Isis and Osiris. In addition, in Christianity it stands for the divine trinity and those that have accepted God.
Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics
The Bluestar come in a variety of shapes and colors. Many varieties have naturally blue petals that range from powdery light blue to deep sapphire. The plants can reach up to two feet in height, but some dwarf varieties cling comfortably at about one foot. There’s also a variegated form, Amsonia tabernaemontana var. salicifolia, with green and white leaves.
How to Pot and Repot
Potted Bluestar should usually be repotted after three years. However, if the plant still has plenty of room in the pot and is not getting overly crowded, it can stay in its current pot. When it does come time to repot, provide a more spacious potty container and ensure that the drainage system is intact. Water generously every 2-3 days after repotting and provide high-quality soil and fertilizer.
How to Prune
Light pruning is encouraged to promote a tidy appearance and delay flowering, as well as split overgrown clumps of Bluestar. Generally, pruning of this flower is done in early spring before flowering. It is essential to shear the plant lightly, leaving a few of the growing tips because Bluestar flowers come from the axils of the leaves on the previous season’s growth.
How to Propagate
Bluestar can be best propagated with cuttings. For example, taking 4-5” semi-hardwood cuttings work best for Bluestar propagation. Water the plant slightly before propagating and make sure that the cutting contained three sets of leaves. Then buff off the softwood at the base of the cutting, creating a slightly tapered end. As a last step, dip the cutting in proper rooting hormones to promote quicker growth. Finally, insert the cuttings in well-drained soil mixture and water thoroughly after planting. Make sure to use a planter that has good air-flow.
Common Pests and Diseases
Bluestar is relatively strong and does not suffer from serious pests and diseases. That being said, some common diseases can occur when the environment is not ideal. For example, if the soil is too wet or if the plant is over-fertilized it can cause root-rot. Additionally, aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars can be a nuisance, however, with proper insecticide, these can be treated effectively.
Three Frequently Asked Questions about Bluestar
Q1: How often do I need to water my Bluestar plant?
A1: You should water your plant when the soil begins to dry out. Do not water too frequently and be sure to allow the top couple of inches of the soil to dry in between watering.
Q2: Do I need to use fertilizer for the Bluestar?
A2: Bluestar does not require shed loads of fertilizer to do well. A low to moderate dose of fertilizer during the growing season will work.
Q3: Is Bluestar a good choice for my garden?
A3: Yes, as a native American plant, Bluestar is a top choice for any US garden. It is very low maintenance, pest and disease resistant, and is easy to propagate.
Fact Sheet
| Bluestar | Amsonia tabernaemontana |
|---|---|
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 16-18 inches |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Soil Type | Loam, Peat and Sandy Soil |
| Soil pH | 6.0 – 7.0 |
| Bloom Time | Spring and Fall |
| Flower Color | Blue |
| Hardiness Zones | 4-8 |
| Native Area | US |
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