Amsonia Repens

Description

Amsonia Repens is a perennial plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is also commonly known as Creeping Bluestar, and its scientific name refers to its blue-colored flowers. It is native to North America and is mainly found in the southeastern region. The plant usually grows up to a height of 6-12 inches with a spread of 12-18 inches. It is a low maintenance plant that can be grown in gardens, rock gardens, and containers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Amsonia Repens has narrow, elongated leaves that are pale green in color and grow up to 2 inches long. The leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern along the stem. The plant produces small, five-petaled, light blue flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are star-shaped and grow in clusters at the top of the stems. The plant’s foliage turns yellow in the fall, adding to its ornamental value.

Care Guide

Amsonia Repens is a hardy plant that thrives in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not require much watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can promote growth. The plant can be propagated through division in the spring or fall.

Water

Amsonia Repens is drought-tolerant and does not require much watering. However, it is important to keep the soil moist during the first few weeks after planting.

Fertilization

Amsonia Repens does not require much fertilization. However, a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can promote growth.

Soil

Amsonia Repens thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.

Sunlight

Amsonia Repens prefers full sun to partial shade.

Hardiness Zones

Amsonia Repens is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Amsonia Repens is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions.

Habitat

Amsonia Repens is native to North America and is mainly found in the southeastern region. It is commonly found growing in open woodlands, meadows, and along stream banks.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Amsonia Repens be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Amsonia Repens can be grown in containers.

Q: When is the best time to divide Amsonia Repens?

A: Amsonia Repens can be divided in the spring or fall.

Q: Is Amsonia Repens deer-resistant?

A: Yes, Amsonia Repens is deer-resistant.

Q: How tall can Amsonia Repens grow?

A: Amsonia Repens can grow up to a height of 6-12 inches.

Related Plants

• Amsonia tabernaemontana
• Amsonia hubrichtii
• Amsonia ciliata
• Amsonia jonesii

References

• “Amsonia repens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 July 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b354.
• “Amsonia repens.” Plant Database. Accessed 28 July 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Amsonia+repens.
• “Amsonia repens.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Accessed 28 July 2021. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/southerngarden/Amsoniarepens.html.