From late summer through mid-autumn, expect generous clusters of deep blue blooms on this carefree shrub. 'Blue Myth' is easily the longest-blooming Caryopteris yet, with more than its share of flowers above aromatic gray-green foliage. Ideal for the rockery, butterfly garden, or sunny border, this compact shrub is a rich source of cut flowers as well as garden beauty.Just 3 feet wide and not quite as tall, 'Blue Myth' is a tidy presence, small enough for containers and a good companion to neighboring plants in the garden. It tolerates heat beautifully, favoring full sun sites with soil that is allowed to become slightly dry between waterings. Moderately drought tolerant, it grows and flowers best with adequate water.
Introduced in 2005, 'Blue Myth' has proven a superior performer in a range of climates. It will die back completely in winter in northern climates; farther south and west, it will need a late winter or early spring hard pruning, since it blooms only on new wood. This annual prune is just about the only maintenance needed, however, as 'Blue Myth' is a robust and easy shrub to cultivate.
Recommended for butterfly and hummingbird gardens, it is a fine source of fragrance as well as difficult-to-find deep blue flowers. Find a place for it in your garden this season, and it will reward you richly for many years to come. Zones 5-9.
