Caryopteris x clandonensis First Choice

First Choice Caryopteris

A compact, reliable late-season flowering shrub selected for its clear blue flowers and neat, rounded habit. Blooming from late summer into early fall, flowers appear on new growth and contrast nicely with aromatic gray-green foliage. ‘First Choice’ offers consistent performance and tidy form, making it well suited to modern landscapes and smaller gardens.


Plant Characteristics


Type: Deciduous shrub



Form: Compact, rounded



Mature Width: 2–3 ft



Mature Height: 2–3 ft



Flower Color: Clear blue



Foliage Color: Gray-green, aromatic




Growing Conditions


USDA Hardiness Zones: 5a–9b



Light: Full sun (best flowering 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 (blooms on new wood)




Landscape Uses
Front of shrub borders, perennial-style plantings, pollinator gardens, containers, and mass plantings. Excellent for adding late-season blue without overwhelming nearby plants.


Care Tips


Prune to 6–12 in in early spring to promote vigorous flowering



Avoid wet winter soils



Performs best in hot, sunny locations

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub

Height

2-3'

Width

2-3'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Fall, Late Summer

Flower color

Blue

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Dark Green

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Moist well-drained, Normal

Landscape use

Foundation

Shape

Oval/Rounded

Bark

Smooth

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

Yes