The Site Gardener

Plant Library

Explore 4,545 plants, with photos and growing details.

Back to Tools

← Back to plant results

Amsonia x 'Blue Ice'

Blue Ice Blue Star

A compact and neat selection of bluestar that combines the best traits of its parents (Amsonia species) for a tight mound, reliable blue flowers, and excellent seasonal foliage interest. Great where a smaller bluestar is needed in the front of borders or mixed perennial beds.

Key features



Width: 12–18 in (1–1.5 ft)



Height: 18–24 in (1.5–2 ft)



Flower color: Soft sky-blue



Bloom time: Mid to late spring



Foliage: Green leaves that typically turn golden yellow in fall



Life cycle: Herbaceous perennial



Growing conditions



Sun: Full sun to light shade



Soil: Well-drained; adaptable to average garden soils



Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established



Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–9



Landscape use



Front of borders and edging



Mass plantings for color and texture



Pollinator and native gardens



Rock and cottage gardens



Notes



Deer and rabbit resistant (typical for Amsonia)



Compact habit makes it excellent in smaller gardens or tighter spaces



Provides good fall color after blooming season



Low maintenance once established

Plant type
Perennial
Height
15-18"
Width
2"
Hardiness zones
5–9
Growth rate
Fast
Bloom time
Early Summer, Late Spring
Flower color
Blue
Leaf color
Dark Green
Fall color
Yellow
Soil
Heavy, Loamy, Well Drained
Landscape use
Border, Mass Planting
Shape
Spreading
Deer resistant
Yes
Drought tolerant
No