Amsonia ludoviciana

This rare wetland species of Amsonia blue star is native from South Carolina to Louisiana but is hardy north to Zone 5. The 3.5′ tall stems compose a 3′ wide deer-resistant clump and are adorned with short leaves (hairy grey-green beneath in spring). In May (NC), the clumps are topped with attractive clusters of sky-blue flowers. This is an easy species to grow and will tolerate extreme drought despite its wetland upbringing.