Bluestar
Amsonia tabernaemontana
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Jul 19, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Bluestar
Bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana) is a native perennial of the eastern United States with upright stems bearing lance-shaped leaves and clusters of pale blue, star-shaped flowers in spring. The willowy foliage turns bright golden-yellow in autumn, making it a standout plant for three-season interest in native and perennial gardens. Starting at $9.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring
- Flower Color
- Blue
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Clay, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Bluestar performs best in full sun to part shade; in NE Florida's intense summer heat, afternoon shade helps prevent foliage scorch and prolongs the attractive summer foliage. It is rated to zone 9 but may struggle with prolonged heat and humidity — provide good air circulation.
Water regularly during the establishment period; once established, Bluestar is moderately drought-tolerant. Avoid waterlogged conditions, especially in Florida's sandy soils. Consistent moisture during spring bloom period produces the best flower display.
Adaptable to sandy, loamy, or clay soils as long as drainage is adequate. Apply a light balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Cut plants back by one-third after bloom to encourage bushier growth and reduce flopping. Bluestar is a long-lived perennial at the southern edge of its range in zone 9b — ensure good drainage to avoid root rot in Florida's wet summers.
Similar needs
Golden Alexanders
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Spiderwort
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Tropical Sage
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Basswood
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Carolina Coralbead
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Chinese Snowball
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
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Common questions
Is Bluestar a good plant for St. Augustine?
Bluestar is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 2-3 feet × 2-3 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed June 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.