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Trachelium caeruleum (Blue throatwort)

Trachelium caeruleum Photo/Illustration: Courtesy of Park Seed



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Trachelium caeruleum Common Name: Blue throatwort Genus: Trachelium
This species bears dome-shaped flower heads several inches across that are crowded with tiny, tubular amethyst or white flowers that look somewhat like the blooms of an allium. It has lance-shaped, toothed leaves in hues of cordovan purple or deep green brushed with plum highlights. It blooms over a long season. Though it is a perennial, blue throatwort performs wonderfully as an annual and blooms summer to fall. Plants grow to about 3 feet tall and wide.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Excellent cut flowers.
 Care: Provide neutral to slightly acidic, well-drained soil in full sun with some shade in the heat of the day.
 Propagation: Sow seed in a cold frame when ripe or at 55° to 60°F in spring, or where they are to bloom in late spring. Rooted cuttings may be overwintered in a protected place.
 Problems: Aphids, spider mites.
Height 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Full Sun Only
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Low
Characteristics Attracts Birds;Attracts Butterflies;Showy Flowers;Showy Foliage
Bloom Time Early Fall;Late Summer;Summer
Flower Color Blue Flower;Purple/Lavender Flower;White Flower
Uses Beds and Borders,Container,Cut Flower,Suitable as Annual
Style Herb Garden,Cottage Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest,Fall Interest
Type Perennials

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