Caryopteris spp.

Deciduous shrub

Plant in spring or fall; Blooms in late summer and early fall

Full sun; 6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day

Moderate temperatures are best (65 to 85°F); avoid planting when the ground is frozen

Well-drained, loamy or sandy soil; intolerant of wet, clay soils

5–9 (USDA)

Can be propagated by seed, but cuttings are preferred for most species

Neutral to slightly alkaline (6.0–8.0)

Water regularly after planting to establish. Once established, it is drought-tolerant. Avoid overwatering

Light mulching and organic matter during planting is good. Established plants often need little to no fertilizer.

Mounding, bushy form with a slightly spreading habit, creating a compact and full appearance

Softwood cuttings in spring or semi-hardwood cuttings in summer

2–4 ft (can vary slightly depending on cultivar)

2–4 ft

Small, fragrant, blue (various shades), or occasionally pink or white flowers borne in clusters along the stems

Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

Border plant, specimen plant, container gardening, butterfly gardens

Coneflowers (Echinacea), Russian sage (Perovskia), and ornamental grasses

Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back to about half its height to encourage bushier growth and more flowers

Typically non-toxic to humans and pets, but it’s always best to avoid ingestion of any ornamental plant

Generally pest-resistant, but watch for spider mites and aphids

Generally disease-resistant but root rot can occur in poorly drained soil

The name Caryopteris comes from the Greek words “karyon” (nut) and “pteron” (wing), referring to the winged seeds

Sometimes confused with Buddleja (butterfly bush) due to similar flower colors and attraction to butterflies, but Caryopteris blooms later in the season