Eastern Bluestar
Amsonia tabernaemontana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Eastern Bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana) is a perennial forb native to AL, AR, DE, FL and 16 more states. It blooms in March, April, and May. The flowers draw butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. It reads as an intentional, HOA-friendly planting in the right spot.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
9"–12" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 16 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Eastern Bluestar produces clusters of pale blue, star-shaped flowers in spring, followed by attractive narrow leaves that turn golden yellow in fall. This compact perennial forms neat clumps and maintains a tidy appearance throughout the growing season.
Growing Eastern Bluestar
Grow Eastern Bluestar in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 9 to 12 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Eastern Bluestar is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract butterflies, bees, and occasionally hummingbirds. The plant serves as a host for sphinx moth caterpillars.
Common questions
- How much sun does Eastern Bluestar need?
- Eastern Bluestar grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Eastern Bluestar bloom?
- Eastern Bluestar blooms in March, April, and May.
- Where is Eastern Bluestar native?
- Eastern Bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana) is native to AL, AR, DE, FL and 16 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Eastern Bluestar attract?
- Eastern Bluestar draws butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
- Is Eastern Bluestar HOA-friendly?
- Eastern Bluestar is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Eastern Bluestar fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.