How to identify Bluebeards (Caryopteris)
Bluebeards exhibits a bushy, herbaceous growth habit reaching 3 to 4 feet (about 91 to 122 cm) in height at full maturity. This perennial shrub flaunts clusters of small, vibrant blue blossoms that ornament the stems. Its flowering peak occurs during the late summer to early fall, displaying a bloom period of approximately two months. The foliage contrast adds to the visual appeal, while the distinctive winged fruit provides a unique textural element post-bloom.
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Herb
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Abundant clusters of vibrant blue flowers
Distinctive small, four-valved capsule fruit
Opposite, ovate to lanceolate leaves, aromatic when crushed
The leaves of bluebeards are opposite, simple, and exhibit an ovate to lanceolate shape. They measure approximately 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.5 cm) in length. The margin of the leaves can be entire or crenate. Their color is typically a vibrant green, and they possess a slightly rough texture. Veins are prominent and reticulate, enhancing the texture. When crushed, the foliage emits a distinctive aroma, making it unique and easily identifiable.
The flowers of bluebeards are notable for their striking blue hue, featuring dense clusters that form at both terminal points and axillary positions on the plant. These clusters are abundant, with each flower possessing a delicate, tubular shape. The petals are intricately arranged to create a visually appealing, vibrant display. Each bloom measures approximately 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) in diameter. This late summer to early fall bloomer emits a subtle, pleasant fragrance, making it both attractive and aromatic.
The fruit of bluebeards is a small, four-valved capsule, a feature that plays a critical role in identification. Upon maturity, this capsule opens up to release four seeds. The ripe fruit typically exhibits a dry and hard texture, adapting for efficient seed dispersal. While the coloration may vary, it often presents a muted, earthy tone that blends seamlessly with the plant's foliage. Each valve of the capsule is tightly packed, ensuring that the seeds are well-protected until they are ready to be dispersed. The fruit's compact size and shape are also noteworthy, subtly hanging among the leaves. Importantly, these characteristics are consistent across species within the bluebeards genus.
Scan QR code to download
Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.
The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.
Solanum lycopersicum is an annual or perennial herbaceous vine native to Central and South America that produces a large, juicy, edible fruit known as tomato. Today there are over 10000 cultivated varieties. Although tomato is the world’s most popular vegetable, botanically it is a fruit.
The pepper are commonly used for cooking in places such as the Southern U.S. and Central America. Most are moderately spicy, though because there are so many variants, the spice level can vary dramatically. Cayenne powder is also a popular seasoning product made from pepper plants.
The swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) produces bright, glossy leaves and makes a popular houseplant. It is originally native to tropical forest regions in Central America. The nickname swiss cheese plant refers to the small holes that develop in the plant's leaves. The long fruits resemble corncobs and smell sweet and fragrant when ripe.
The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.
Identify a Plant Online
Scientific Classification of Bluebeards
