Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ is a stunning perennial plant that is highly regarded for its beautiful blue flowers. Its scientific name is Amsonia tabernaemontana, but it is commonly known as Blue Star or Blue Ice. This cultivar features gorgeous clusters of star-shaped blue flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant has attractive willow-shaped foliage, which turns golden yellow in the fall, adding to its appeal.
About Amsonia Blue Ice
Description and Characteristics
Amsonia Blue Ice is a compact plant that grows in clumps and reaches a height of about 2 feet. It prefers full sun to part shade and is known to be a low-maintenance plant, making it perfect for gardens with different levels of care. The foliage of this blue star plant turns a shade of yellow in the fall, enhancing the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Growth and Blooming
The plant grows and thrives in well-drained soil in full sun. It is adaptable and can tolerate a variety of soil conditions, but it performs best in soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The plant produces plump navy blue buds that open into darker blue flowers, creating a stunning display. When in bloom, the plant attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding life and movement to the garden.
Care and Maintenance
Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ is a fairly drought-tolerant plant, making it ideal for gardens with sparse rainfall or for gardeners who prefer low-maintenance plants. It does not require much shade and can be grown in full sun or partial shade. It is also deer-resistant, making it a reliable choice for gardens prone to deer damage. To maintain its compact shape, it may require occasional pruning, especially after blooming.
Benefits of Growing Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’
Attracts Pollinators
The showy blue flowers of Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ are irresistible to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant provides a valuable food source for these beneficial insects, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the garden. By growing Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’, you can actively support pollinator populations and help to maintain a healthy ecosystem.
Low Maintenance
Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ is known for its low-maintenance requirements. Once established, it is a plant that can largely take care of itself. It does not require excessive watering or fertilization and can withstand periods of drought. Its adaptability and resilience make it an ideal choice for busy gardeners or those looking for plants that require minimal attention.
Drought Tolerant
Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ is a drought-tolerant plant, meaning it can withstand periods of dry weather with minimal water requirements. This makes it an excellent choice for gardens in regions with inconsistent rainfall or for those who prefer conservation-minded gardening. By choosing drought-tolerant plants like Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’, you can limit your water usage and create a sustainable, water-wise garden.
Planting and Propagation
Planting Location
Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ prefers a planting location that receives full sun to part shade. It can tolerate a range of soil conditions but performs best in well-drained soil. When selecting a planting site, consider the plant’s mature size and ensure there is enough space for it to grow and spread. Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ can be grown in containers or in garden beds and borders.
Soil Requirements
For optimal growth and blooming, Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ requires well-drained soil. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay and sandy soils, as long as the soil is not waterlogged. If your soil is heavy or compacted, you may need to amend it with organic matter to improve drainage. This will help the plant establish and thrive in its new environment.
Propagation Methods
Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ can be propagated through division or from stem cuttings. Dividing established clumps is the most common method of propagation. This is typically done in early spring before the plant starts to actively grow. When dividing, ensure each section has both roots and foliage to increase the chances of successful establishment. Stem cuttings can also be taken in early summer and rooted in a moist growing medium.
Popular Varieties of Amsonia
Amsonia tabernaemontana
Amsonia tabernaemontana is the species from which the ‘Blue Ice’ cultivar is derived. It is commonly known as Eastern Bluestar and features large clusters of sky-blue flowers. This species is native to eastern North America and is valued for its beauty and hardiness.
Amsonia illustris
Amsonia illustris is another popular variety of Amsonia. It is also known as Shining Bluestar and is native to the southeastern United States. This variety produces clusters of deep blue flowers and has attractive glossy foliage.
Amsonia hubrichtii
Amsonia hubrichtii, commonly known as Threadleaf Bluestar, is a unique variety cherished for its delicate, thread-like foliage. It produces clusters of light blue flowers and is native to the central United States. This variety adds an interesting texture to garden beds and borders.
Companion Plants for Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’
Salvia
Salvia, also known as Sage, is an excellent companion plant for Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’. Salvia produces colorful blooms in various shades of blue, purple, pink, and red, complementing the blue flowers of Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’. Both plants share similar growth habits and thrive in similar conditions.
Echinacea
Echinacea, commonly known as Coneflower, is another great companion for Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’. Echinacea produces vibrant, daisy-like flowers in a range of colors, including purple, pink, and white. Its upright growth habit and long blooming period make it a perfect companion for the clump-forming Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’.
Agastache
Agastache, also known as Hyssop or Anise Hyssop, is a wonderful companion plant for Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’. Agastache produces spiky flower clusters in various shades of purple, pink, and orange, creating a striking contrast with the blue flowers of Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’. Both plants are loved by pollinators, providing an attractive and beneficial combination in the garden.
Common Pests and Diseases
Aphids
Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can infest Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’. They can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To control aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or introduce predatory insects such as ladybugs or lacewings that feed on aphids.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common disease that can affect the foliage of Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’. It appears as circular lesions on the leaves and can cause them to turn yellow or brown. To prevent leaf spot, ensure proper spacing between plants to promote air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If leaf spot occurs, affected leaves should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread.
Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves of Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’. It appears as orange or rust-colored spots on the foliage. To control rust, remove and destroy affected leaves and ensure proper spacing between plants to promote air circulation. Fungicides may also be used as a preventive measure in severe cases of rust.
Q: What is Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ (Blue Star)?
A: Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ (Blue Star) is a perennial with star-shaped flowers that open from dark blue buds and turn a periwinkle blue. It adds a billowy, finely textured element to cottage gardens.
Q: When is the best time to plant Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’?
A: The best time to plant Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ is in late spring or early summer, when the foliage and flowers are at their peak.
Q: How does Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ look in fall?
A: In fall, the foliage turns golden yellow and adds a beautiful contrast to other fall colors in the perennial garden.
Q: Is Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ deer resistant?
A: Yes, Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ is deer resistant and makes an excellent addition to any garden.
Q: Does Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ need staking?
A: No, Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ does not need staking as it has strong stems that can support its own weight.
Q: Is Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ drought tolerant?
A: Plants of this genus are fairly drought tolerant but they prefer moist, loamy soil for optimal growth.
Q: What happens if I grow Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ in too much shade?
A: If grown in too much shade, plants may become leggy and floppy due to lack of sunlight.
Q: Does the sap of Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ contain milky sap?
A: Yes, the sap of this plant contains milky sap which can irritate skin if contact is made.
