Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Dark Knight'

Dark Knight Bluebeard

A standout late-season flowering shrub known for its exceptionally dark, rich blue flowers—among the deepest blues of any Caryopteris. Blooming from late summer into early fall, the flowers contrast beautifully with aromatic gray-green foliage. Upright and well-branched, ‘Dark Knight’ delivers strong color when most shrubs are finished for the season.


Plant Characteristics


Type: Deciduous shrub



Form: Upright to rounded



Mature Width: 3–4 ft



Mature Height: 3–4 ft



Flower Color: Deep navy-blue



Foliage Color: Gray-green, aromatic




Growing Conditions


USDA Hardiness Zones: 5a–9b



Light: Full sun (best color and compact habit)



Soil: Average to dry, well-drained soils



Water: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established



Maintenance: Low; cut back hard in early spring (flowers on new wood)




Landscape Uses
Shrub borders, pollinator gardens, perennial-style plantings, mass plantings, and foundation beds. Excellent for delivering intense late-season blue in mixed landscapes.


Care Tips


Prune to 6–12 in in early spring to refresh growth



Avoid wet winter soils



Performs best in hot, sunny locations

Plant type

Flowering Shrub

Height

3-4'

Width

3-4'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Fall, Late Summer

Leaf color

Asparagus

Fall color

Blue

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Dry Area, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Mass Planting

Shape

Oval/Rounded, Upright

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No