Caryopteris

More Information About Caryopteris

Caryopteris, also known as bluebeard, is an Asian member of the verbena family with around a half-dozen species. Caryopteris species are rare outside of botanic gardens (Caryopteris divaricata is a popular exception) but there is a hybrid (C. incana × C. mongholica) called Caryopteris x clandonensis has become quite popular as a perennial for the sun garden, with increasing selections becoming available. The long-lasting, butterfly-attracting, blue-lavender flowers and deer-resistant (but funky smelling) foliage (often variegated) make caryopteris a designers dream come true. Blooming starts in the late summer and continues into fall.

Growing and Caring for Bluebeard Plants

Caryopteris plants prefer well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions once established, but do not tolerate heavy, wet soils. This is a great choice for a rock garden. Caryopteris is perfect for a mass planting, a low border, or a xeriscape garden. Maintenance is easy... simply cut back the stems in early spring to remove winter dieback... that's it.