Hint of Gold Bluebeard Caryopteris × clandonensis Hint of Gold = 'Lisaura' (PBR)
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ABOUT
The 'Hint of Gold' bluebeard is a striking ornamental shrub that is distinguished by its vibrant foliage and delicate flowers. The most remarkable feature of this plant is its leaves, which, as suggested by its name, display a luminous golden-yellow color that can add a bright contrast to any garden setting. This golden hue is particularly prevalent on the new growth, while the more mature leaves may transition to a softer yellow-green tone. During the blooming season, which typically runs from late summer to early autumn, the plant becomes adorned with clusters of small, tubular flowers. These blossoms are a rich lavender to blue color, which creates a delightful visual harmony against the gold-tinted leaves. The flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees, which find the blooms a valuable source of nectar. The overall growth habit of the bluebeard is somewhat mounded and bushy, providing a dense foliage that is both soft to the touch and slightly aromatic. It is a deciduous shrub, meaning it will shed its leaves as the colder season approaches. The combination of its colorful foliage and eye-catching flowers makes the 'Hint of Gold' bluebeard a popular choice for adding a splash of color and interest to mixed borders, beds, and even container gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Bluebeard, Blue Spirea, Blue Mist Shrub
Common names
Caryopteris × clandonensis 'Lisaura'
ToxicityTo humans
Caryopteris, commonly known as Bluebeard, has no widely recognized toxicity to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant is unlikely to result in poisoning. However, as with many plants not intended for consumption, individual allergies or sensitivities could cause mild stomach upset or other allergic reactions in some people if ingested. There are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant for humans, as it is not considered dangerous. Nonetheless, it is advisable to seek medical attention if a person experiences any adverse effects after ingesting any part of this plant.
To pets
Bluebeard, the common name for Caryopteris, is also not known to be toxic to pets. It is generally considered a non-toxic plant, so there should be no severe symptoms of poisoning expected if a pet ingests this plant. However, the consumption of non-food plants by pets can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, mostly due to the animal's digestive system not being adapted to processing plant material. If a pet shows any adverse health signs after consuming this plant, it is recommended to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Yellow-green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Hybrid
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: The 'Hint of Gold' variety has striking yellow to lime-green foliage that provides visual interest throughout the growing season.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is relatively drought-resistant, making it suitable for low-water gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond occasional pruning and is not demanding regarding soil type or pH balance.
- Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are important for pollination and maintaining biodiversity in the garden.
- Compact Size: Typically stays within a modest size range, making it ideal for small gardens or spaces where other shrubs might grow too large.
- Seasonal Flowers: Blooms in late summer to early fall with clusters of blue to violet flowers, providing color when many other plants are fading.
- Deer Resistance: Less attractive to deer compared to other plants, which can help prevent damage in areas where deer browsing is a concern.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Caryopteris × clandonensis 'Hint of Gold', commonly known as Bluebeard, can be used in floral arrangements, either fresh or dried, adding a touch of unique color and texture to bouquets.
- Because of its colorful foliage, Bluebeard is suitable for crafting natural dyes for textiles, yielding soft blue or green tints depending on the mordant used.
- Bluebeard branches can be woven into decorative wreaths or garlands for seasonal decor during autumn, enhancing the natural aesthetic of outdoor areas.
- The shrub can be used as a natural boundary or privacy screen in gardens due to its dense growth habit.
- Its leaves can be used as a natural pest deterrent in gardens; their aromatic quality can repel certain insect pests.
- Bluebeard can provide a habitat and food source for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity in the garden.
- As an ornamental plant, Bluebeard can be trained into topiary forms, offering a creative and artistic element to garden designs.
- When combined with other drought-resistant plants, Bluebeard can be used in xeriscaping, contributing to water conservation efforts in landscaping.
- The distinctive blue flowers of Bluebeard can be used in crafting, such as pressing for bookmarks or card embellishments, preserving their beauty in a variety of forms.
- Its woody stems can be used in small garden construction projects, like creating natural stakes or supports for other plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bluebeard is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bluebeard is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Tranquility - Caryopteris, also known as Bluebeard, often symbolizes tranquility due to its soft, blue-violet flowers which evoke a calming presence in gardens.
- Attraction - The bright foliage of the 'Hint of Gold' and its blossoms are known to attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees; thus, it represents the power to attract and charm others.
- Spiritual Enlightenment - Bluebeard's association with the color blue and its rarity as a late summer bloomer can signify a search for spiritual enlightenment and introspection.
- New Opportunities - As the Caryopteris × clandonensis 'Hint of Gold' introduces a unique splash of color to the latter part of the season, it can be symbolic of new opportunities or experiences arising later in life or in unexpected places.
WaterThe Bluebeard 'Hint of Gold' prefers to be watered once the top inch of the soil feels dry. Deep watering is recommended, ensuring that the water reaches the root zone. In proper conditions, this might equate to about 1 inch of water every week, but this can vary based on climate and soil conditions. During hot, dry spells, water requirements may increase, and the Bluebeard might need additional water. Conversely, in cooler temperatures or during periods of rain, watering frequency should be reduced to prevent overwatering. Always allow the soil to dry slightly between watering to discourage root rot.
LightFor optimal growth, Bluebeard 'Hint of Gold' should be planted in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Ideally, the plant should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Full sun exposure encourages the best flowering and maintains the vibrant foliage color. However, some afternoon shade can be beneficial in areas with very intense midday sun, especially in warmer climates.
TemperatureThe Bluebeard 'Hint of Gold' is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It can survive in temperatures as low as 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit but prefers a more moderate climate. The ideal growing temperatures are between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. During extreme temperature swings, it’s important to protect the plant, especially from harsh winter winds.
PruningBluebeard 'Hint of Gold' benefits from pruning to maintain shape and promote vigorous growth. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning often involves cutting the plant back to about a third of its size to encourage bushier growth and more profuse blooming. Some gardeners also prefer light pruning after the first flowering to rejuvenate the plant and potentially encourage a second bloom.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBluebeard 'Hint of Gold' thrives best in well-drained soil enhanced with organic matter and prefers a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A balanced mix of two parts garden soil, one part sand or perlite, and one part compost or peat moss is ideal.
RepottingBluebeard 'Hint of Gold' typically requires repotting every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container, to refresh the soil and encourage continued growth.
Humidity & MistingBluebeard 'Hint of Gold' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but thrives best in average to dry atmospheric conditions, without the need for supplemental humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, minimal watering, and low humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleCaryopteris × clandonensis Hint of Gold, commonly known as Hint of Gold Bluebeard, begins its life as a seed, germinating in warm temperatures with adequate moisture. Upon successful germination, the seedling emerges and develops into a young plant with distinctive golden-yellow foliage. As it matures, this deciduous shrub enters a rapid vegetative growth stage, producing woody stems and opposite leaves. In late summer to early fall, Hint of Gold Bluebeard reaches its flowering stage, showcasing clusters of small, fragrant blue flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. After flowering, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed to create new plants, and as temperatures drop, the shrub enters dormancy, losing its leaves and conserving energy for the next growing season. Each year, the shrub may undergo pruning to maintain shape and promote vigorous growth and flowering in the following season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Caryopteris × clandonensis 'Hint of Gold', commonly known as the Golden Bluebeard, is typically propagated through softwood cuttings. The optimal time for taking these cuttings is in late spring or early summer when the new growth is just hardening off. To propagate, a gardener would cut sections of stem about 4 to 6 inches (about 10 to 15 centimeters) long, ensuring each cutting has several sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed and the cut end dipped in rooting hormone before being placed in a well-draining rooting medium. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a warm environment but out of direct sunlight until they root, typically within a few weeks. Once the cuttings have established a robust root system, they can be transplanted to a more permanent location. This method is popular due to its simplicity and high success rate.
