Blue mistflower, blue boneset
Light: Sun to partial shade
Height: 18-36 inches
Spread: 18-36 inches
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-10
Origin: Central and southeastern North America
Fall-blooming perennials are a joy to gardeners. For the lover of blue-colored flowers, blue mistflower, also known as blue boneset, (Conoclinium coelestinum) fills that need.
The growth pattern is erratic, with stems filling in the bare spots. The purple-green stems are stiff and covered with a bit of downy fuzz.
The ovate leaves are 2 to 3 inches long with a serrated leaf edge.
In the fall, the stems are topped with clusters of small, fluffy, discshaped, bluish-purple flowers.
Blue mistflower plants are enthusiastic growers that spread by rhizomes and seeds, so don't be surprised if it moves about the garden.
Although the plant grows best in well-drained soils, it will grow in wet soils, too.
Bees and butterflies are attracted to the flowers.
See blue mistflowers in the Wells Barn back garden and in the Scotts Miracle Gro Foundation Children's Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
— Barbara Arnold Franklin Park Conservatory