Caryopteris × clandonensis 'Dark Knight'
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant Name | Caryopteris × clandonensis 'Dark Knight' |
| Common Name | Bluebeard, Blue Spirea, or Blue Mist |
| Plant Type | Deciduous shrub |
| Height | 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) |
| Spread | 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) |
| Foliage | Aromatic, grey-green foliage |
| Flower Colour | Deep, rich blue |
| Bloom Time | Late summer to early autumn |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Soil | Well-draining soil, prefers slightly dry conditions |
| Watering | Moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Maintenance | Low; pruning in early spring enhances growth |
| Uses | Borders, containers, pollinator gardens, cottage gardens |
| Notable Features | Attracts bees and butterflies, deer-resistant, late-season interest |
Planting Aspects
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Site Selection: Choose a location with full sun exposure. Caryopteris 'Dark Knight' thrives best in well-draining soil and sunny conditions, making it ideal for garden borders, mixed beds, or containers.
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Soil Preparation: This plant prefers moderately fertile, well-draining soil. It tolerates poor soils as long as drainage is adequate.
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Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth it was in the nursery pot. Ensure the crown is level with the soil surface.
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Spacing: Space plants 2 to 3 feet apart to allow for proper air circulation and prevent overcrowding.
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Watering: Moderate water needs. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, Caryopteris 'Dark Knight' is drought-tolerant.
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Mulching: A layer of mulch around the base can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, but ensure the mulch does not touch the stems.
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Maintenance: Very low maintenance. Prune back in early spring to encourage dense growth and maintain a compact form. Deadheading is not necessary, but trimming spent blooms can enhance appearance.
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Fertilizing: Caryopteris is a light feeder. An annual application of compost or balanced fertilizer in early spring will promote healthy growth and blooms.
Key Features & Uses
- Late-Season Blooms: Caryopteris 'Dark Knight' provides a burst of color in late summer to early autumn, offering rich blue flowers when many other plants are fading.
- Pollinator-Friendly: Its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to pollinator-friendly or wildlife gardens.
- Compact & Versatile: This compact shrub is well-suited for smaller gardens, containers, or even mass planting. It works beautifully in borders or mixed with other perennials and shrubs.
- Drought-Tolerant & Deer-Resistant: Once established, 'Dark Knight' can handle dry conditions, making it a great choice for low-water gardens. It is also resistant to deer browsing.
Caryopteris × clandonensis 'Dark Knight' is an easy-to-grow, deciduous shrub known for its stunning deep blue blooms and aromatic, grey-green foliage. Reaching a height and spread of about 2 to 3 feet, it adds vibrant late-season colour to gardens and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its low-maintenance requirements, combined with its drought tolerance and deer resistance, make it a popular choice for borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator gardens. With its long-lasting blooms and compact size, 'Dark Knight' is a versatile and attractive addition to any garden.