As we creep towards the end of 2013, I wanted to take a look back at some of the new plants I added to my ever growing "collection" this year. It is obviously way too soon to pass any sort of judgment after only a year or so, but many of these gems are already proving themselves in my harsh conditions. And that deserves some accolades.
On tap for today is Amsonia (Blue Star) 'Blue Ice'.
I have previously gushed about my Amsonia tabernaemontana and how they have remained free of deer damage and have easily survived poor draining soil. That alone allows you acceptance into my landscape. But when you throw in the multi-seasonal interest, especially the stunning autumn color, it makes it an absolute no-brainer.
My slow developing brain eventually came to the logical conclusion "Why not plant ADDITIONAL Amsonia since you have had previous success with them dummy". In late summer of 2012, I dud just that and purchased a bunch of the 'Blue Ice' cultivar online at an incredible discount. They were tiny little plugs that I simply shoved in the ground and never touched again, other than some periodic watering when the moment called for it.
'Blue Ice' is a much more compact Blue Star maxing out at a size of about 15" x 20" (or so they say online. I will be the final judge of that). A few additional bits of information if you're too lazy to research it yourself (I kid):
- Zones 4-9
- Prefers full sun
- Bloomed end of May/Early June until the middle of July for me here in zone 6B New Jersey
- Perfect edger due to its shorter stature
- As mentioned previously, it is deer resistant
- As mentioned previously, tolerates most soils, including a wet site like mine
I love the deeper color of the blooms as compared to my other Amsonia and the foliage is a sweet glossy green. Color me impressed. The only aspect I have no opinion on as of yet, is the fall color. I'll need another year on that one.
I love this plant so much already that I planted ten more a few weeks ago in a way difficult spot that will test their fortitude even further.
Let the games begin.