Size Matters:
Choosing the Right Bluebeard Plant for Your Landscape

If you’re looking for a plant that’s easy to care for, drought-tolerant, and produces beautiful blooms in late summer to fall, then the bluebeard plant (Caryopteris) might be just what you need. These small shrubs are perfect for adding some color and texture to your landscape, but with so many types and sizes available, how do you choose the right one? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different varieties of bluebeard plants and help you select the perfect one for your garden.

Types of Bluebeard Plants

There are several types of bluebeard plants to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Caryopteris x clandonensis ‘Dark Knight’

This is one of the most popular bluebeard plants on the market, and for good reason. ‘Dark Knight’ produces masses of deep blue flowers from August to September and grows up to 3 feet tall and wide. It’s a great choice for mass plantings, borders, or containers.

Caryopteris divaricata ‘Snow Fairy’

If you’re looking for a white-flowering variety, then ‘Snow Fairy’ is a great option. This compact shrub grows up to 2 feet tall and wide and produces clusters of white flowers from July to September. It’s perfect for small gardens or as a low hedge.

Caryopteris incana ‘Sunshine Blue’

‘Sunshine Blue’ is a compact variety that grows up to 2 feet tall and wide. It produces masses of bright blue flowers from August to September and has silvery-green foliage that adds interest to your garden even when it’s not in bloom.

Caryopteris x clandonensis ‘Longwood Blue’

This is another popular bluebeard plant that grows up to 4 feet tall and wide. ‘Longwood Blue’ produces spikes of blue flowers from August to September and has silvery-green foliage that looks great year-round. It’s a good choice for hedges or as a specimen plant.

Choosing the Right Size

When selecting a bluebeard plant for your landscape, it’s important to consider its mature size. Some varieties can grow up to 4 feet tall and wide, while others stay compact at just 2 feet. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right size:

Space

Consider how much space you have in your garden. If you have a small yard or limited planting space, then a compact variety like ‘Snow Fairy’ or ‘Sunshine Blue’ might be a better choice.

Purpose

Think about how you want to use the plant in your landscape. If you’re looking for a low hedge or border plant, then a compact variety might work well. If you want a specimen plant or something that will provide more height and impact, then consider one of the taller varieties like ‘Longwood Blue’.

Maintenance

Keep in mind that larger plants may require more pruning and maintenance than smaller ones. If you don’t have time for regular pruning, then a compact variety might be a better choice.

Planting and Care Tips

Bluebeard plants are relatively easy to care for, but here are some tips to ensure they thrive in your garden:

• Plant them in well-draining soil in full sun.
• Water regularly during the first growing season but reduce watering once established.
• Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
• Fertilize once in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

FAQ

Q: Are bluebeard plants deer-resistant?

A: Yes, bluebeard plants are generally deer-resistant due to their strong scent.

Q: Do bluebeard plants attract pollinators?

A: Yes, bluebeard plants are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Q: Can I grow bluebeard plants in containers?

A: Yes, bluebeard plants can be grown in containers as long as they have well-draining soil and receive plenty of sunlight.

Q: When is the best time to prune my bluebeard plant?

A: Prune your bluebeard plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

Q: How often should I fertilize my bluebeard plant?

A: Fertilize your bluebeard plant once in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.