Bluebeard (Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Longwood Blue') is a woody perennial and reminds me a lot of Buddleia (Butterfly Bush)...as it's sky-blue flowers bloom on arching stems and it's silvery-gray foliage is attractive to butterflies and bees. The flowers are unique, sporting little blue 'beards'! The plants (shrubs!) will grow up to 4 ft. in height and, while they prefer full sun, mine are doing fine in dappled shade, in between my crepe myrtles and carpet rose bushes. I planted them in the garden that runs along the side of my driveway. They look so cheery right now, as the summer is dying down.
Next year I may need to move them to allow more space between them and the other plants...but for now, they have found a home right where they are. If I don't eventually move them, I will at least plan to cut the plants back to about 6 in. in height, which should encourage more branching and 'fullness'.
Oh, and did I mention they are not only aromatic, but deer-resistant as well!! My front yard is a deer magnet (and my many phlox probably just serve to encourage them to come!). I just love it when I find plants that are both deer resistant AND gorgeous! If you live in the right zone for Bluebeard, you really should give it a try!
Stay tuned for September Surprise #3, coming shortly!
--Today I am thankful for bushes with blue blooms;-)
Words and photos by Jan Huston DobleThanks For 2 Day.
