Caryopteris × clandonensis: Blue Mist Shrub for Heat and Drought

Caryopteris × clandonensis – Tough Blue-Flowered Shrub

Blue beard/blue mist shrub takes the worst of hot summers (heat, drought, humidity) and still performs. Lives 4–5 years before needing replacement. Low-growing, finely-textured mounds with dependable foliage and pretty blue flowers mid to late summer. Deer-resistant.

Culture

Full sun to part shade, very well-drained soil not overly rich. Cut back in late winter for strong dense summer shrub. Propagate by separating rooted stems in early spring or softwood cuttings. Pests: infrequent, capsid bugs may affect leaves. May need hard pruning in spring in severe winters.

Key Facts

• Height: 1–3 ft.
• Spread: 3–6 ft.
• Light: Full sun
• Moisture: Dry to medium
• Bloom: Summer (blue)
• Features: Drought & heat tolerant, deer-resistant, attracts bees & hummingbirds