Caryopteris (Bluebeard)
at Digging Dog

Including Caryopteris x clandonensis First Choice and Caryopteris incana

Caryopteris

Bluebeard

Shrouded in a blue mist from midsummer until frost, these woody, shrublike perennials proclaim an Asian heritage and Verbena relations. Aromatic and paired, the deciduous foliage is attired with dense clusters of tantalizing whorled flowers enhanced by showy extended stamens. An excellent choice for a shrubby bed, mixed border or open bank, their cool colors complement the warmer tones of late season blooms. Prized by bees and butterflies, sun-loving Caryopteris tolerates some drought and demands good drainage.

Caryopteris incana 

Common Bluebeard

This shrubby perennial is valued for its ability to handle a dry site, but definitely proves itself indispensable when masses of its deep blue-violet flowers put on a spectacular show. Enveloping stiff upright stems, the richly colored blooms are long lasting in the garden and in arrangements as well. Handsome, grayish green felted leaves emit a pleasing medicinal scent as they cloak Common Bluebeard’s looser, more open profile.

Blooms mid-August–October.

Size: 3'–5' high x 4' wide; hardy to zone 7.

Caryopteris incana (P-0728)
Each $7.00
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Caryopteris x clandonensis ‘First Choice’ 

Blue Mist Spiraea

Englishman Peter Catt bred sterling qualities into this easy-to-care-for Caryopteris: deep, vivid blue blossoms, an earlier, extended bloom period, and a neatly compact form that requires little pruning. ‘First Choice’ also earns its place for winning whorls of inky flowers, which emerge from the leaf axils along the upper part of each erect stem. Serrated, with a green sheen topside, the linear leaves are a soothing gray-green beneath. Blue Mist Spiraea offers arresting texture and color when staged with the toasty hues of Sedum ‘Autumn Fire’ and Spodiopogon sibiricus.(PP#11,958)

Blooms July–September.

Size: 3' high x 3' wide; hardy to zone 5.

Caryopteris x clandonensis First Choice (P-1100)
Each $8.25
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