Yes, Virginia, it is a caryopteris. Forget what you know about Caryopteris x clandonensis, as this cousin comes from a distant limb of the family tree. This variegated Japanese selection of the wonderful Himalayan perennial Caryopteris divaricata forms a small, compact clump composed of fuzzy, green, deer-resistant leaves, each surrounded with a bright white border and smelling amazingly like cat urine when crushed (important safety tip...do not crush leaves). Starting in mid-September, the clumps are topped with delightful "blue curls." This is a real WOW plant that must be seen to be believed.
.jpg "Epimedium wushanense (Wushan Fairy Wings)")
.jpg "Crinum 'Infusion' (Infusion Crinum Lily)")
