Plant pick: Golden bluebeard

Published 3:00 pm Wednesday, August 19, 2009

WHAT: Golden bluebeard features sunny yellow leaves and amethyst-blue flowers in late summer. This deciduous shrub, also known as caryopteris incana Jason Sunshine Blue, has an upright and compact shape and its bright foliage holds its color. It is free of most diseases and pests, too.

WHY PLANT IT: It does not exhibit the sometimes- floppy habit of other golden-leaved bluebeards. Flowers form attractive tufts at the ends of its branches and it is resistant to burning in full sun. It makes a brilliant statement, especially when planted in drifts.

WHERE: It prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Most problems come from too much shade or water-logged roots caused by rainy Northwest winters. Once established, bluebeards are drought tolerant and need only occasional watering during prolonged dry periods.

HOW: Tuck into perennial plantings to add a late- season punch. Its small, finely textured leaves pair well with ornamental grasses. Prune in late winter to about 12 inches tall to encourage strong new growth and summer flowering.

ACTUAL SIZE: This golden bluebeard reaches about 4 feet tall and wide and has slightly rounded growth habit.

LEARN MORE: See www.greatplantpicks.org.

Source: Great Plant Picks