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Description
Amsonia Tomentosa, commonly known as Eastern bluestar, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to the eastern United States, particularly found in the Piedmont and Appalachian regions. The plant grows up to 2-3 feet tall and wide, forming a clump of attractive foliage that turns golden yellow in autumn. The flowers bloom in spring, producing clusters of star-shaped, light blue flowers that measure up to 1 inch across. The plant is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and is a popular choice for garden borders, woodland gardens, and naturalized areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Amsonia |
Appearance
Amsonia Tomentosa has a bushy and upright growth habit, with green leaves that measure up to 6 inches long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are lance-shaped, arranged alternately on the stems, and have a soft, velvety texture. The foliage turns golden yellow in the fall, adding to the plant’s ornamental appeal. The flowers bloom in late spring or early summer, producing clusters of light blue, star-shaped flowers that measure up to 1 inch across. The flowers are followed by elongated seed pods that split open to release the seeds.
Care Guide
Amsonia Tomentosa is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care to thrive. Here are some care guidelines for this plant:Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers in shady conditions.Hardiness Zones: Amsonia Tomentosa is hardy in USDA zones 5-9, meaning it can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Amsonia Tomentosa is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by some common garden pests and diseases. Here are some of them:Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation if left untreated. Control by removing infected leaves and applying a fungicide.Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. Control by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or applying an insecticidal soap.Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. Control by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or applying a miticide.
Habitat
Amsonia Tomentosa is native to the eastern United States, where it is commonly found in open woods, meadows, and along streambanks. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soils and can tolerate a range of soil types. It is a popular choice for garden borders, woodland gardens, and naturalized areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Amsonia Tomentosa deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is considered deer-resistant due to its bitter-tasting foliage.Q: Can Amsonia Tomentosa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How often should I divide Amsonia Tomentosa?
A: The plant can be divided every 3-4 years in the spring to maintain its vigor and prevent overcrowding.Q: How tall does Amsonia Tomentosa grow?
A: The plant grows up to 2-3 feet tall and wide.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Amsonia Tomentosa:- Amsonia Hubrichtii- Amsonia Ciliata- Amsonia Tabernaemontana- Amsonia Peachiei
References
– “Amsonia tomentosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on August 9, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a960.- “Amsonia tomentosa.” PlantFiles. Accessed on August 9, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/55399/.- “Eastern Bluestar (Amsonia tomentosa).” Gardenia. Accessed on August 9, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/amsonia-tomentosa-eastern-bluestar.
