Blue Mist Spirea
Louisville, Colorado area landscapes {Monthly Series}
Blue Mist Spirea, or Caryopteris x clandonensis ‘Blue Mist’ is not really a member of the Spiraea family but has such similar characteristics that its common name is Spirea. It has green and very fragrant foliage when touched or crushed which fade to silver as the summer progresses into fall, abundant powder blue flowers along the stems, and vigorous growth rates. Its roots are hardy to Zone 5, but the tops are usually only hardy to Zone 6 or 7, and thus is often pruned back to the crown at the beginning of the growing season. Established plants may push new growth from last year’s stems, but hard pruning does not affect flower generation because it blooms on new growth. It likes a loamier soil, but can withstand the clay soils in our Louisville Colorado landscapes. It likes moderate water, but can withstand drought, especially once established. Flowers are very attractive to bees, butterflies and other pollinator and beneficial insects. It will push 30” of growth per year, so established plants might push 42” in height and 5’ in width if it doesn’t get pruned back heavily and pushes growth from old wood. The only real issue with this plant is that it may develop crown rot and die back if its feet are kept in wet, soggy conditions.
This plant works well as a backdrop to perennial borders, or as stand-alone specimens for an accent color. It likes full sun or some partial late afternoon shade. It is valued because it holds its flower color late into the fall growing season. Sometimes seeds will germinate at the base of the mother plant, but they are easy to remove. It is a great substitute for Russian Sage because the seed roots are not as aggressive and more easily removed. Plant some in your landscape this spring and watch the colors come alive!
Some photos by Keith Williamson from Little Valley Wholesale Nursery
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