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.
Related plant:
Caryopteris Heavenly Blue
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Source:
Caryopteris Clandonensis Dark Knight | NC State Extension
Species: Caryopteris x clandonensis - Cornell University
JC Raulston Arboretum - Our Plants - Caryopteris ×clandonensis