Conoclinium coelestinum CoriMistflower
Family:Asteraceae
common name:Mistflower
introduce:Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Asteraceae
Missouri Native: No
Native Range: None
Height: 1.5 to 3 feet
Spread: 1.5 to 2.5 feet
Bloom Time: September - October
Bloom Color: Blue
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Medium to wet
Maintenance: Medium
General Culture:
Easily grown in average, medium wet to wet, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist soils in full sun. May be cut back in summer to promote denser habit. A vigorous plant that spreads by rhizomes and can be invasive in ideal growing conditions. Divide every three years to help control growth.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
This mist flower cultivar typically grows 2-3 tall and features tiny, fluffy, clear blue flowers in compact clusters (up to 70 flowers per cluster) from late summer to frost. Toothed, triangular, dark green leaves (to 4" long). This cultivar is very similar to the species (see J870), except the flowers herein are a lighter blue, the plants grow slightly taller and the flowers bloom slightly later. Very attractive to butterflies. Sometimes called hardy ageratum because the flowers closely resemble those of annual ageratum. Formerly known as and still sometimes sold as Eupatorium coelestinum Cori.
Problems:
No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to powdery mildew. Leaf miners and aphids may also visit. Plants tend to flop and may need some support. Invasive tendencies must be watched, particularly if planted in the perennial border.
Uses:
Provides excellent late summer bloom for the perennial border. Contrasts well with white and yellow chrysanthemums. Also effective in wild gardens, cottage gardens, meadows, along streams or ponds, native plant gardens or naturalized areas.
