Caryopteris Grand Bleu - Bluebeard - 

Commonly known as bluebeard, blue spirea or blue mist the Caryopteris x clandonensis, is a low-mounded, deciduous shrub hybrid that originates from a cross between the two Asian species Caryopteris incana and C. mongholica and was derived from an induced mutation of the popular cultivar ‘Heavenly Blue.’ that offers intense blue flowers. It is valued for its aromatic foliage and late summer flowers which are said to resemble clouds of blue smoke or mist.

The Caryopteris Grand Bleu is a dense, bushy, and tough shrub that tolerates high drought conditions and can easily be grown in average, medium moisture, or well-drained soil in full sun. It is root-hardy to USDA Zone 5 where it re-sprouts from the ground in the spring. In warmer areas Cultivators are advised to hard-prune it low to the ground after flowering to keep next year's growth compact and neat.

Caryopteris first choice the deciduous has incredible flowers that have long stamens and are of a remarkable deep dark blue which is highlighted by the bright, dark green characteristic foliage. Like all Caryopteris, the foliage gives off a turpentine smell when touched. In the fall, the leafy stems become lined with many dense colorful whorls of flowers that draw pollinators in masses and are sweetly scented.

If you are wondering how to plant and care for these incredible Caryopteris Grand Bleu perennial shrubs, we recommend planting in large quantities in public spaces or as a sole shrub in your gardens as it is well applicable as a garden plant, in the shrub border, as solitary or in a mixed container.

Thank you to Darwin Perennials for sharing this beautiful flowering Caryopteris image with us.