Hubricht's Bluestar

Amsonia hubrichtii

Nature Hills Nursery

Feathery Threadlike Foliage Transforms to Golden Yellow in Fall for Extended Garden Interest
Thrives in Zones 5-8
Grows 2-3 ft Tall and Wide
Showy Blue Blooms in Late Spring
Native, Pollinator-Friendly - Attracts Butterflies

$29⁴⁵

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Plant Size

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Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: For the most vibrant golden fall color and the sturdiest stems, plant in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct light). While it handles partial shade well, the foliage may lose its upright habit and lean toward the light.
Soil: This hardy perennial thrives in well-drained, loamy soil but is remarkably adaptable to heavy clay. If your soil is sandy and drains too quickly, mix in an inch of compost to help hold onto the moisture this plant loves.

Watering Requirements

During the first growing season, provide one inch of water per week to help the deep root system settle in. Once Hubricht's Bluestar is established, it becomes exceptionally drought-tolerant and can handle dry spells without wilting. Inconsistent watering during the heat of summer can lead to yellowing lower leaves, so aim for deep soakings at the base rather than frequent light sprinkles.

Pruning Tips

This plant blooms in late spring on the growth from the previous year, so wait until the blue flowers fade before reaching for your shears. To prevent the tall, feathery stems from flopping over later in the season, cut the entire plant back by about 6 inches after flowering. Think of this like a summer haircut that encourages a dense, bushy shape and keeps the plant looking tidy until the spectacular fall color change.

Fertilizer Needs

Amsonia is a light feeder and usually only requires a single application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer, as this can force tender new growth that will not have time to harden off before the first frost. Over-fertilizing can also result in "lazy" stems that sprawl on the ground instead of standing tall.

Delivery and Shipping

Preorder Shipping Schedule

We ship your plants when it's safe to transport them to your zone. Dates are estimated and subject to weather delays.

Zone 3-4	Week of March 30th
Zone 5	Week of March 16th
Zone 6-12	Week of March 2nd

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Hubricht's Bluestar – Stunning Blue Stars!

The Hubricht's Bluestar (Amsonia hubrichtii), a type of Narrowleaf Bluestar, is a versatile, long-lived perennial prized for its delicate blue flowers, feathery green foliage, and brilliant golden fall color.

Native to North America, Bluestar is a drought-tolerant and deer-resistant plant, thriving in a wide variety of landscapes, offering multi-season interest with minimal maintenance! The feathery foliage remains lush green all season until bursting into golden yellow for the fall!

Whether used in borders, native plant gardens, or mass plantings, Hubricht’s Bluestar provides texture, movement, and elegance throughout the year.

Key Features of Hubricht's Narrowleaf Bluestar

Soft Blue Star-Shaped Flowers – Blooms in late spring, creating a delicate and airy floral display.
Fine, Feathery Green Foliage – Adds soft texture and movement to the garden, turning a vibrant golden-yellow in fall.
Compact Yet Striking – Grows 24-36 inches tall and wide, making it perfect for borders and mass plantings.
Low Maintenance & Drought Tolerant – Thrives in various soil conditions with minimal care.
Cold Hardy & Heat Tolerant – Suitable for USDA Zones 5-8, handling both hot summers and chilly winters.
Deer and Rabbit Resistant – Foliage is unappealing to deer and other browsing animals.
Attracts Pollinators – Provides nectar for bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

Landscaping With Hubricht's Bluestar

This low-maintenance perennial is perfect for a range of garden styles and applications:

Borders and Foundation Plantings – Adds soft, flowing texture and seasonal color.
Mass Plantings – Create a stunning golden-yellow wave in fall when planted in groups throughout your landscaping beds, Cottage borders, and mixed Perennial Gardens.
Native and Pollinator Gardens – Supports biodiversity while blending beautifully with wildflowers.
Rock Gardens and Dry Landscapes – Tolerates drought and thrives in well-draining soil. Perfect natives for Xeric landscaping!
Cottage and Prairie Gardens – Complements ornamental grasses, coneflowers, and black-eyed Susans.
Modern and Minimalist Landscapes – Its fine texture and golden fall foliage create a natural yet structured look.

Care & Maintenance

This hardy and adaptable herbaceous perennial requires little effort to thrive!

Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade; more sun promotes better fall color.
Soil: Well-draining soil is ideal; tolerates sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
Watering: Water regularly when young; once established, it is highly drought tolerant.
Mulching: A light layer of mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pruning: Cut back after the first frost to maintain a tidy appearance.
Fertilizing: Generally not needed; a light application of compost in spring can encourage growth.
Winter Care: Fully hardy in most climates and does not require special winter protection.

Add Texture, Color, and Pollinator Appeal To Your Garden

The Hubricht’s Bluestar is a garden standout, offering delicate spring flowers, feathery green summer foliage, and spectacular golden fall color. This low-maintenance, deer-resistant perennial is an excellent choice for landscapes that need long-lasting beauty without extra work.

Order yours today and bring the elegance of Hubricht’s Bluestar to your garden.

Botanical Name

Amsonia hubrichtii
Class

Magnoliopsida
Species

hubrichtii
Growing Zones

5-8
Height

2-3 ft
Width

2-3 ft
Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade
Growth Rate

Moderate
Flower Color

Blue
Leaf Color

Green, Gold, Yellow
Fall Color

Orange
Native

Yes
Bloom Period

Late Spring
Does Not Ship To

AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

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Growing Zones 5-8

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mature size and height of Hubricht's Bluestar?

Hubricht's Bluestar grows 24-36 inches tall and wide at maturity, forming a compact yet substantial clump. This size makes it ideal for borders, foundation plantings, or mass displays. Plan for adequate spacing to showcase its feathery texture and brilliant fall color.

What are the light requirements for Hubricht's Bluestar—full sun or partial shade?

Hubricht's Bluestar thrives in full sun to partial shade, with best flowering in full sun. This adaptable perennial tolerates various light conditions across zones 5-8. For optimal blue spring blooms and golden fall color, plant in a spot with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Shop quality plants at naturehills.com.

Does Hubricht's Bluestar require fertilizing, and when?

Hubricht's Bluestar typically doesn't need regular fertilizing due to its low-maintenance nature and drought tolerance. If your soil is particularly poor, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. This hardy perennial thrives in various soil conditions with minimal intervention.

How do I prune or maintain Hubricht's Bluestar, and when is the best time?

Hubricht's Bluestar requires minimal pruning and thrives with little maintenance. Cut back stems to 6 inches in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. You can also deadhead spent flowers in late spring to encourage tidier growth, though it's not necessary for plant health.

Is Hubricht's Bluestar deer-resistant or pest-resistant?

Hubricht's Bluestar is both deer and rabbit resistant, as its foliage is naturally unappealing to browsing animals. This native perennial also attracts beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies while deterring unwanted pests. Shop at Nature Hills for this low-maintenance, pest-resistant addition to your garden.

How is Hubricht's Bluestar shipped—bare root, potted, or otherwise?

Hubricht's Bluestar typically ships as a potted plant during the growing season. This hardy perennial establishes well in USDA Zones 5-8 when planted in spring or fall. Plant it in well-draining soil and give it space to reach its mature 24-36 inch spread.

How do I winterize or protect Hubricht's Bluestar in cold zones?

Hubricht's Bluestar is cold hardy to USDA Zone 5 and requires no special winter protection in its hardiness range. Simply cut stems back to 2-3 inches after the golden fall foliage dies back. Apply a light mulch layer around the base in the coldest zones.

Will Hubricht's Bluestar attract pollinators like butterflies and bees?

Yes, Hubricht's Bluestar attracts bees and butterflies with its soft blue star-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring. The nectar-rich blooms provide excellent support for local pollinators and ecosystems. Plant it in your pollinator or native garden for best results.