Arkansas Bluestar

Arkansas bluestar, native to the Ouachita mountains, was discovered in 1942 by naturalist Leslie Hubrict. Since then, it has become a garden favorite, prized for its cloudlike foliage and brilliant autumn hue. Its designation as the Perennial Plant of the Year for 2011 indicates that it’s not only attractive, but also adaptable and easy to grow in a variety of conditions. The tall stems sport feathery foliage topped in late spring by pale blue, star-shaped flowers. In fall, the foliage turns a hazy, golden yellow, especially when grown in full sun.

Arkansas Bluestar was featured as a Top Performer in a Mt Cuba Center Trial Garden Research Report. These reports evaluate native plants and related cultivars for horticultural and ecological value, highlighting the ecosystem services they provide.