Eastern Bluestar – This baby-blue bloomer is sure to be a spring showstopper in your garden. Growing up to 3-4 feet tall, Eastern Bluestar is a herbaceous perennial native to much of the central US. In fact, this particular plant was wild collected by our former Director of Horticulture, Adam Black, just a couple of miles away from the Garden along the side of a country road! In mid to late spring, large tufts of light blue star-shaped flowers emerge atop each stalk. These flowers persist for only about 2 weeks, but we have had success with forcing a repeat bloom by cutting the stems almost all the way to the ground and allowing new growth to reemerge in early summer. When cut, the stems produce a milky sap that, although not harmful to humans, helps prevent the plant from being munched on by deer. Plant in full or part sun and in well-draining soil. Although it is tolerant of drought, Eastern Bluestar performs best in moist soils.