This Florida Native is a nectar-rich, butterfly magnet to say the least. They grow in clusters and re-seed easily as wildflowers do so they are perfect to use as a fill plant. They bloom pretty much year-round showing off small purplish-blue fuzzy clusters.
How to care for Blue Mistflower
Light. Full sun to light shade.
Water. It likes moist soil and handles only short dry spells once established. Water during dry periods, especially in the dry season.
Soil and feeding. It grows in sandy, limestone or organic soils. It can grow in poor soil but needs some organic matter to thrive.
Size. Listed at up to 3 ft; most plants stay 1–2 ft tall. It grows fast and spreads by underground stems into large patches.
Good to know. A Florida native wildflower that blooms from summer into fall and may die back in winter. Skippers and other butterflies and bees visit the flowers. It suits moist wildflower or butterfly gardens and pond edges. Keep it away from salt wind.
Sources: Natives for Your Neighborhood (Institute for Regional Conservation): Conoclinium coelestinum · Florida Native Plant Society Plant Database: Conoclinium coelestinum
