Amsonia × 'Blue Ice'
blue ice bluestar
Garden hybrid; likely parentage involves {Amsonia tabernaemontana} and other North American species
Overview
Amsonia spp. × 'Blue Ice' is a compact hybrid bluestar in the Apocynaceae spp. family that forms a dense, mounding clump 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) tall and 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) wide, roughly half the size of standard A. tabernaemontana. Terminal clusters of ice-blue star-shaped flowers, each approximately 0.5 inch (1.3 cm) across, open in May and June and emerge more heavily than in many taller Amsonia spp. cultivars. Narrow, dark green willow-like leaves form a finely textured mound that holds shape without the post-bloom shearing taller species require. In fall, the foliage turns golden-yellow for 2–3 weeks before dropping. The compact, self-supporting habit suits front-of-border positions and containers where standard bluestars would overwhelm the planting. Soils ranging from clay to sandy loam are tolerated, and the plant handles drought once roots establish. Cut stems exude a milky white sap that can irritate skin on contact, and all plant parts contain alkaloids toxic to humans and pets if ingested. Deer and rabbits avoid the foliage. Clumps reach mature size slowly across 2–3 seasons but persist for many years and rarely require division.
Native Range
Amsonia spp. × 'Blue Ice' is a garden hybrid of uncertain exact parentage, likely involving North American Amsonia spp. species. It was selected for compact stature and heavy flower production.Suggested Uses
Sized for the front of mixed borders, pathway edging, and mass plantings where the compact mound carries three-season interest. Container culture works in pots of 5 gallons (19 L) or more. The golden-yellow fall foliage pairs with fall-blooming asters and ornamental grasses.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 1'6"
Width/Spread1'6" - 2'
Reaches mature size in approximately 3 years
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs in May and June. Terminal clusters of ice-blue star-shaped florets open over a 3–4 week period. Flower production is heavier than in taller Amsonia spp. species. No reblooming occurs after the spring display.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Dark green, narrow, willow-likeGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 5-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Site in full sun to partial shade with at least 5 hours of direct light. Tolerates a range of soils including clay. Average moisture during establishment; drought-tolerant once rooted. The compact habit rarely requires post-bloom shearing, but a light trim after flowering keeps a tidy dome. Fertilization is unnecessary. Division is rarely required. Cut stems release a milky sap that can irritate skin on contact.Pruning
Lightly shear after flowering in June if a tighter mound shape is wanted; this step is optional for 'Blue Ice' given its naturally compact habit. Cut all stems to 3–4 inches (8–10 cm) above ground in late fall or early spring.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
summer
Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 5 gallons