Caryopteris 'First Choice' PP11958 CPBRAF |
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Photo Courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.
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| | Common Name: Blue Mist Shrub
Common Name (Alternative): Bluebeard |
A first-rate seedling selection made by Peter Catt at Liss Forest Nursery in Hampshire, England, and introduced in the US by Plant Haven. Unlike many others in this species, 'First Choice' exhibits compact mounds of dark green foliage and fragrant, dark purplish-blue flowers. Inky-blue buds burst open to reveal these distinguished blooms a few weeks earlier than the all of the other cultivars, beginning in midsummer and lasting thru early fall. They can also be cut for bouquets that will last a week or longer.
This late bloomer is especially valuable because it looks its best when many other perennials are done for the season. When planted in mass, it will surely catch everyone's attention, and the foliage will remain fresh-looking all summer long due to its drought tolerance.
Caryopteris is a woody perennial or sub-shrub that grows to be the size of a small shrub. In fact, it can be used in place of shrubs in the landscape. Allow it plenty of space to achieve maximum impact.
Breeder: Peter Catt
Introducer: Plant Haven
Origin: Not Native to North America
Characteristics:
Height:
2-3 Feet
Spread:
2-3 Feet
Sun or Shade?:
Full sun (> 6 hrs. direct sun)
Wet or dry?:
Low water needs
Average water needs
Want to see wings?:
Attracts butterflies
Need critter resistant plants?:
Deer resistant
How fast should it grow?:
Medium
When should it bloom?:
Late summer
Early fall
How's your soil?:
Poor Soil
Average Soil
Sweet or Sour Soil?:
Acidic Soil (pH < 7.0)
Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0)
Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)
What's your garden style?:
Container/Patio
Eclectic
Caryopteris grows best in full sun and loose, loamy, well-drained soil. It is very tolerant of heat and drought and detests wet soil. Flowers are formed on new growth, so the stems can be cut back at any time. In fact, the best time to prune caryopteris is just after the new growth starts to appear in spring. Fall pruning is not recommended.