Shrub-like plant with showy blue star-shaped flowers in late spring, arranged in clusters and visited by hummingbirds and butterflies. Dull green foliage grows densely and resembles willow leaves; foliage often turns a nice yellow in fall. Amsonia ciliata is a similar species that can tolerate drier conditions.
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Eastern Blue Star
Amsonia tabernaemontana
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Forest, Glade, Prairie
Season of Interest: Early (Feb - Apr), Mid (May - June)
Main Color: Blue
Fall Color: Yellow
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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Photo: Mervin Wallace

Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade

Soil
Moisture
Moderate, High

Nature Attracting
Butterfly, Hummingbird, Pollinators/Beneficial Insects

Wildlife Benefit
Butterfly / Moth Nectar, Food/Pollinators

Animal
Resistance
Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant
Size
Height:
24 to
36
inches
Spread:
24 to
36
inches
Size
Height: 24 to
36
inches
Spread: 24 to
36
inches
Size
Height: 24 to
36
inches
Spread: 24 to
36
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Grouped in borders or native plant gardens including rain gardens; in containers.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Likes moist, well-drained soil. Tend to be leggier in shade; consider staking or pruning if needed.
Special Features
Special Usage
Containers, Fresh Cut Flower, Rainscaping
Basic Description
Where Should I Start?
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What’s the Next Step?
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.