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Northwest Blooms · Perennials

Amsonia ciliata 'Halfway to Arkansas'

Halfway to Arkansas Fringed Bluestar

Amsonia ciliata 'Halfway to Arkansas'
Family
Apocynaceae
Height
2 to 3 feet
Width
2 to 3 feet
Flower color
Pale blue
Foliage color
Silvery-green
Bloom time
Late spring to early summer
Light
Full sun to part shade
Water
Moderate
Maintenance
Low; occasional deadheading may be needed
Growing zone
USDA Zones 5–9
Wildlife
Bees, butterflies

About this plant

Amsonia ciliata 'Halfway to Arkansas' is a compact perennial known for its airy, star-shaped, periwinkle-blue flowers that appear in terminal clusters during late spring to early summer. Its name suggests a diminutive form, and while it is more compact than the species, its leaves are slightly broader but shorter. This cultivar exhibits a graceful arching growth habit that makes it particularly appealing in sunny settings.

A notable feature is its autumn transformation, where its foliage turns a vibrant golden hue, often complemented by purple-brown highlights. Unlike its taller relatives, 'Halfway to Arkansas' demonstrates an excellent upright posture, even under the stress of heavy rain, making it both visually appealing and robust in garden settings. This selection hails from North America and thrives in regions with sunny to partially shaded conditions.

Works well in

Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Lady's mantle · Hellebores · Hardy geraniums · Hostas · Ferns · Astilbes

Design tip

The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. It takes sun or light shade, which makes it useful along the changing light of a bed edge or a partly shaded border.