Culture
Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. Prefers loose loams. Tolerates some drought. Intolerant of wet, poorly-drained soils.
This plant is relatively new to commerce, and its winter hardiness in the St. Louis area is not yet fully understood. Consideration should be given to siting it in a protected location.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Most plants in the genus Caryopteris are woody shrubs or subshrubs. C. divaricata is an herbaceous perennial that is native to the Himalayas. Blue flowers in terminal and axillary clusters appear from late summer into fall. Foliage is unpleasantly aromatic when crushed. Flowers are attractive to butterflies, bees and other beneficial insects.
Genus name comes from Greek karyon meaning "nut" and pteron meaning "wing" in reference to the winged fruits found on this shrub.
Specific epithet means spreading.
‘Snow Fairy’ is a recent variegated-leaved cultivar introduced from Japan that will grow 24-36” tall and as wide. Ovate to lance-shaped leaves are green with irregular white margins.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Crowns may rot in wet, poorly-drained soils.
Uses
Perennial borders. Shrub borders. Cottage gardens. Butterfly gardens. May be grouped or massed. Valued for its late summer to fall flowers.