Is Caryopteris winter hardy?
Caryopteris is hardy to between -5°C and -10°C, so will survive the average UK winter without the need for added protection. In very cold regions it will benefit from the warmth of a south-facing wall. Caryopteris, commonly known as Bluebeard or Blue Spirea, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Lamiaceae.Caryopteris is fast growing. Once established, it can grow about 18′ – 30′ a year, though it usually tops off at about 3′ in height. Older stems will become woody, giving it a little structure. The signature blue blooms will only occur on new growth, so pruning is necessary.One of the most significant advantages of Caryopteris plants is that they are low-maintenance and easy to care for. They require minimal pruning and can survive drought conditions. In early spring, prune back any damaged or dead branches.Blooming earlier than other earlier bluebeards, award-winner Caryopteris x clandonensis ‘First Choice’ is a compact deciduous shrub of tight habit with deep blue flowers in late summer through early fall. Opening from deep indigo-blue buds, they are attractive to bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
How long do caryopteris bloom?
Bluebeard is a genus of seven species of medium-sized (3 to 4 feet high at maturity) herbaceous perennial to semi-evergreen shrubs with abundant small, blue flowers clustered around the stems at every leaf section. Its blooming season lasts for about two months, from late summer into early fall. Propagating Bluebeard Plants Bluebeard may self-seed, and the volunteers can be transplanted as you wish. You can also propagate by softwood cuttings in late spring.Bluebeard grows best in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. The plant prefers loose loams or sandy soils and tolerates some drought. However, it does not do well in wet, poorly drained soils. The roots of the plant are winter hardy, but the top growth is only reliable to USDA Zone 7.
Is Caryopteris short-lived?
It may develop some woodiness however it grows from the ground up each spring and blooms in late summer on new softwood growth. What is the lifespan of a Caryopteris? This is a short-lived plant lasting from three to five years before replacement is needed. Where to grow caryopteris. Grow caryopteris in well-drained soil in full sun in a herbaceous or mixed border. Depending on the variety, it grows between 50cm and 1.Caryopteris can be propagated by cuttings taken during spring or early summer. Find non-flowered shoots 5-10cm long and snip off the plant. Put them in a plastic bag straight away to prevent drying out. Fill a container with a compost mix which is at least 50% perlite (or if you prefer, as we do, 100% perlite).Caryopteris should be pruned every spring to keep them compact and flowering strongly. They can also be pruned lightly after flowering.