Threadleaf Blue Star (Amsonia hubrichtii)

Threadleaf Blue Star (Amsonia hubrichtii), also called Arkansas Blue Star, is a perennial native to Arkansas and Oklahoma. Its feathery, thread-like leaves create a soft, billowy texture in the garden.

Clusters of light blue, star-shaped flowers appear from late spring to early summer. In fall, the foliage turns golden yellow for another season of interest. This plant is relatively drought tolerant once established and resistant to deer and rabbits.

Growing details

• Plant type: Perennial
• Origin: Arkansas and Oklahoma
• Mature size: 2–3 feet tall and wide
• Spacing: Approximately 2.5 feet apart
• Hardiness: USDA zones 5–8
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained soil
• Flowers: Light blue stars, from late spring to early summer
• Foliage: Fine, thread-like leaves turning golden yellow in fall

Care and garden use

Water regularly in well-drained soil. Cut back after flowering to help prevent flopping.

Use as an accent or in grouped plantings, borders, woodland gardens, rock gardens, or containers. Pair with gayfeather, muhly grass, or phlox for contrasting textures and seasonal color.

Image credits: David J. Stang, Amsonia hubrectii 1zz, CC BY-SA 4.0; peganum from Small Dole, England, Amsonia hubrichtii - Flickr - peganum, CC BY-SA 2.0; David J. Stang, Amsonia hubrechtii 3zz, CC BY-SA 4.0; JR P, Arkansas Bluestar (amsonia) in the Japanese Garden at Georgia's Gibbs Gardens; peganum from Small Dole, England, Amsonia hubrichtii autumn foliage - Flickr - peganum (1), CC BY-SA 2.0. Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.