Summary
Amsonia tabernaemontana var. illustris (Ozark bluestar), formerly known as Amsonia illustris, is a large and beautiful bluestar variety from the south-central United States, where it is found in sandy or rocky soils along streams. This plant appears very similar to a different variety, A. tabernaemontana var. salicifolia, but details of the flowers, fruit, and foliage can be used to differentiate the two. Close examination of the flowers of Ozark bluestar will reveal hairs along the margin of the calyx in contrast to the hairless calyxes of A. tabernaemontana var. salicifolia. Once the flowers have been pollinated, the ripening fruit of Ozark bluestar hangs downward instead of being held upright. Finally, Ozark bluestar has beautiful shiny leaf surfaces and undulating leaf margins, which is a unique and highly ornamental feature amongst the trialed Amsonia.
Details
- Rating
4.4 - Common Name
Ozark bluestar