How to Grow Caryopteris X Clandonensis - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Caryopteris x clandonensis is a deciduous shrub that is native to China. The plant has blue or lavender flowers and is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens. Caryopteris x clandonensis is also known as bluebeard or blue mist flower.

How to Grow Caryopteris X Clandonensis - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Artic Sunset'
  • Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Blue Mist'
  • Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Chelsea Gold'
  • Caryopteris x clandonensis 'First Choice'
  • Caryopteris x clandonensis 'Worcester Gold'

Common Knowledge

  • Caryopteris x clandonensis is a hybrid plant species.
  • The species is a cross between Caryopteris incana and Caryopteris clandonensis.
  • It is a deciduous shrub.
  • The plant is native to China.
  • It was first described by French botanist Étienne Pierre Ventenat in 179
  • The species is cultivated as an ornamental plant.
  • It is used in traditional Chinese medicine.
  • The plant contains the chemical compound caryopterin.
  • Caryopteris x clandonensis is considered an invasive species in some parts of the world.
  • The plant is a known host of the Japanese beetle.

Planting Process

  1. For caryopteris x clandonensis, first step is to find a well-drained spot in full sun to partial shade.
  2. Amend the planting area with compost or other organic matter to help improve drainage.
  3. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and of similar depth.
  4. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with amended soil.
  5. Tamp down gently and water thoroughly.
  6. Add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant, but do not allow it to touch the stems.
  7. Water regularly, especially during the first year after planting.
  8. Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for shrubs.
  9. Prune as needed to shape and control growth.
  10. Watch for common pests and diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and scale.

Related plant:
Caryopteris Heavenly Blue

The Soil

About soil condition, Caryopteris x clandonensis prefers well-drained soil but can grow in average or even poor soils as long as they are not waterlogged. It's tolerant of drought and salt spray once established. This shrub also benefits from occasional deep watering and feeding in spring.

Light requirement

Just like other plants, Caryopteris x clandonensis also needs sunlight to grow and thrive. This particular species needs at least 6 hours of direct sun exposure each day in order to maintain its growth and bushy habit. If you live in an area with less sunlight, you can grow this plant in a pot so that it can be moved around to get the most sunlight possible.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is most ideal for growing caryopteris x clandonensis is one that is warm and sunny. This plant is not tolerant of cold temperatures, so it is important to choose a location that will offer it protection from the cold. A sunny spot in the garden is the perfect place for this plant.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50%. If the humidity levels drop below 30%, the plant will start to suffer. The leaves will become dry and start to fall off. If the humidity levels remain low for an extended period of time, the plant will eventually die.

The Fertilizer

Discussing fertilizer, this plant does best with a light application of a well balanced fertilizer. After the initial planting, a yearly top dressing of compost is beneficial. Applying a layer of mulch will help to retain moisture and keep down weeds. When watering, it is best to provide a deep soaking, allowing the water to penetrate the root zone.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of keeping your caryopteris x clandonensis plant healthy and looking its best. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. You can prune off any dead or damaged leaves or stems, as well as any weak or leggy growth. Trimming back the plant will encourage new growth and help to keep it compact and bushy.

About Propagating

Propagation of Caryopteris x clandonensis is typically done through softwood or semi-ripe cuttings taken in the late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 6-8 inches long and taken from new growth. They should be placed in a well-drained soil mix and kept moist until roots have developed. Once the roots have developed, the plants can be transplanted into their permanent location.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate during the daytime. The sun's warmth encourages growth and the plant to reach its full potential size. However, some caryopteris x clandonensis growth rate can continue into the nighttime hours if the temperatures are warm enough. If the nighttime temperature is too cold, the plant's growth will be stunted.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and dieback. These problems are typically caused by improper watering, too much sun, or too little sun. Improper watering can cause the leaves to yellow and the plant to wilt. Too much sun can cause the leaves to fade and the plant to become stunted. Too little sun can cause the leaves to turn brown and the plant to die.

Tips on Growing

  • Make sure to plant caryopteris x clandonensis in an area that gets full sun for best results.
  • This shrub does best in well-drained soil.
  • Fertilize caryopteris x clandonensis shrubs in early spring using a balanced fertilizer.
  • Once established, caryopteris x clandonensis is a relatively drought tolerant plant. However, during extended periods of drought, you may need to provide supplemental watering.
  • To help control the spread of this plant, shear it back after each bloom cycle.
  • Caryopteris x clandonensis is generally pest and disease free. However, keep an eye out for scale, aphids and powdery mildew.
  • When planting caryopteris x clandonensis, make sure to space the plants approximately 3 feet apart.
  • This plant can grow quite large, so be sure to give it

Alternative Plants

  • Widdringtonia cedarbergensis (Cedarusberg cedar)
  • Widdringtonia longifolia (Yellowwood)
  • Widdringtonia schwarzii (Black wattle)
  • Widdringtonia wallichii (Indian cedar)
  • Widdringtonia whytei (Mountain cedar)
  • Betula celtiberica (Celtiberian birch)
  • Betula celtidifolia (Birchleaf mountain-mahogany)
  • Betula chenalata (Chenalata birch)
  • Pinus cembra (Swiss stone pine)
  • Juglans cembra (Himalayan walnut)

Source:
Caryopteris Clandonensis ‘Dark Knight’ | NC State Extension
Species: Caryopteris x clandonensis - Cornell University
JC Raulston Arboretum - Our Plants - Caryopteris ×clandonensis …

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category