Contents
Description
The Amsonia Tabernaemontana Storm Cloud is a stunning perennial plant that adds a unique touch to any garden. Its scientific name is derived from the botanist, John Amson, and the plant’s appearance, which resembles a tabernacle. The plant’s common name is Bluestar, as its flowers are a vibrant blue color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Amsonia |
Appearance
The Amsonia Tabernaemontana Storm Cloud grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are a deep green color and can turn yellow in the fall. The plant produces clusters of star-shaped flowers that are a vibrant blue color, and each flower is around 1 inch in diameter. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer and can continue blooming sporadically throughout the summer.
Care Guide
The Amsonia Tabernaemontana Storm Cloud is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be too wet. Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as well.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Amsonia Tabernaemontana Storm Cloud is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew if the plant is in a humid environment or if it is not getting enough air circulation. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant is getting enough sunlight and air circulation, and avoid overhead watering. If the plant does get powdery mildew, treat it with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Amsonia Tabernaemontana Storm Cloud is native to the eastern United States and can be found growing in meadows, woodland edges, and along streams. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate some drought.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I propagate the Amsonia Tabernaemontana Storm Cloud?
A: The plant can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.Q: Can I grow the Amsonia Tabernaemontana Storm Cloud in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.Q: Does the Amsonia Tabernaemontana Storm Cloud attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its vibrant blue flowers.Q: How often should I fertilize the Amsonia Tabernaemontana Storm Cloud?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Amsonia ciliata
- Amsonia hubrichtii
- Amsonia illustris
- Amsonia jonesii
References
- “Amsonia tabernaemontana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=289915&isprofile=0&basic=amsonia%20tabernaemontana.
- “Amsonia tabernaemontana.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2269/storm-cloud-blue-star/.
- “Amsonia tabernaemontana Storm Cloud.” White Flower Farm, www.whiteflowerfarm.com/amsonia-tabernaemontana-storm-cloud.
