Amsonia orientalis

Known commonly as blue star, Amsonias bear starry flowers from late June. Slow-growing perennials, they lack drama but make the perfect foil for a number of more dramatic and colourful plants. The different species are hard to tell apart, but Amsonia orientalis has larger, brighter blue flowers than other types and longer, larger leaves.

Grow Amsonia orientalis in moist soil, in full sun or semi-shade. Eventually it forms tight clumps that don't need regular division or staking.