Blue Spirea, Blue Mist Spirea
caryopteris x
Also known as: ["Bluebeard","Caryopteris clandonensis"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub known for its aromatic foliage and vibrant blue flowers in late summer.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Caryopteris |
| Botanical Name: | Caryopteris x |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or as a specimen in sunny garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can work for containers.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; cut back by one-third to one-half of the plant’s height.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but blooms less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Place in brightest spot available; rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth if needed in extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but may die back in severe cold; thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Protect from frost; ensure good air flow in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilizing; apply before new growth emerges.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings; occasionally by layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Perlite or sand mixed with peat moss; well-draining potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; maintain humidity; keep out of direct sun; check for roots after 3 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and promote flowering; remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger stems), gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before new growth; remove dead wood; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; water plant before repotting; handle roots carefully.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain freely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or cessation of flowering in extreme heat or cold; yellowing or browning of leaves.
Cold Stress
Stems and leaves may die back; root systems can be damaged if soil freezes; growth slows or halts.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; move container plants indoors before frost; use frost cloth for protection in-ground plants.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or flower bud drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; mist foliage during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding; follow package instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to encourage hardiness.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCaryopteris x is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCaryopteris x is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCaryopteris x is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities, though it is not typically used as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does Caryopteris x bloom?
A: It blooms in late summer, typically from August to September.
Q: Is Caryopteris x deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant.
Q: How should Caryopteris x be pruned?
A: Prune in early spring, cutting back to about 6 inches above the ground to encourage bushy growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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