Complete Gardening
Explore the captivating world of trees and shrubs that delight us with their stunning blue blooms. These marvels of nature not only bring vibrant hues to gardens and landscapes but also attract pollinators and offer various environmental benefits. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these fifteen selections are sure to inspire your next planting adventure.
1. Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia)
The Jacaranda tree is a vision of elegance during its blooming season. This small ornamental tree is renowned for its breathtaking, lavender-blue, trumpet-shaped flowers. As the blooms drape gracefully, they create a spectacular floral waterfall effect that can leave onlookers mesmerized.
In late spring, when the flowers are in full bloom, the Jacaranda truly shines, transforming landscapes into a sea of blue. Its delicate foliage adds a touch of softness, contrasting beautifully with the vibrant blossoms. Gardeners cherish this tree for its beauty and the sense of serenity it brings to any garden.
2. California Lilac (Ceanothus spp.)
California Lilac, belonging to the Ceanothus genus, is an evergreen shrub that bursts into life with deep blue flowers. Early summer is when this plant truly showcases its floral display, attracting pollinators and providing a feast for the eyes.
These tight clusters of blossoms are perfect for low-water gardens, as California Lilac is drought-tolerant and thrives with minimal care. The vibrant flowers, coupled with its resilient nature, make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to introduce ecological beauty into their landscapes. Embrace its charm and enjoy a garden filled with life.
3. Blue Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata)
Blue Plumbago is a remarkable evergreen bush known for its continual sky-blue blooms. These phlox-like flowers begin their show in spring and continue to grace gardens until frost sets in.
This sprawling plant can be a versatile addition to any garden, thriving in both containers and ground plantings. Its delicate flowers are not only visually appealing but also attract butterflies, adding to the garden’s lively atmosphere. Whether used as a hedge or a standalone feature, Blue Plumbago brings a sense of tranquility and color to outdoor spaces.
4. Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus)
The Chaste Tree, or Vitex agnus-castus, is a delightful multi-stemmed shrub or small tree. It is celebrated for its fragrant panicles of violet-blue flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators.
Throughout the blooming period, which spans summer to early fall, this tree offers a visual and olfactory treat. The aromatic blooms and the gentle rustling of butterflies create a serene garden experience. Known for its easy maintenance and adaptability, the Chaste Tree is a wonderful choice for gardeners wishing to add elegance and ecological interest to their landscapes.
5. Blue Mist Spirea (Caryopteris × clandonensis)
Blue Mist Spirea, scientifically known as Caryopteris × clandonensis, is a compact shrub that brings a breath of fresh air with its late summer blooms. The airy, periwinkle blossoms emit a delicate scent, perfuming the garden and delighting the senses.
These charming flowers flutter in the breeze, adding movement and life to any garden setting. Ideal for small spaces, Blue Mist Spirea is both beautiful and practical, offering a low-maintenance option for those seeking to enhance their garden’s appeal with minimal effort. Its unique color and form are sure to captivate.
6. Blue Butterfly Bush (Clerodendrum ugandense)
The Blue Butterfly Bush, or Clerodendrum ugandense, is an exotic shrub revered for its unique, two-toned blue and white blooms. These dangling clusters resemble delicate butterflies in flight, captivating both humans and pollinators alike.
Its enchanting flowers make it a standout feature in any tropical garden. Beyond its beauty, the Blue Butterfly Bush also adds an element of whimsy and wonder, creating a magical garden experience. Whether planted as a central feature or a complementary plant, it brings an exotic flair that is sure to intrigue and inspire.
7. Empress Tree (Paulownia tomentosa)
The Empress Tree, also known as Paulownia tomentosa, is a marvel of rapid growth and stunning beauty. With its large, heart-shaped leaves, it provides ample shade and adds a sense of grandeur to any landscape.
In the blooming season, the tree is adorned with clusters of pale violet-blue blossoms, which are not only visually stunning but also fragrant. These blossoms attract a variety of pollinators, making it an excellent choice for biodiversity. Its ability to grow quickly makes it a favorite among those looking to create a lush garden in a short time.
8. Butterfly Bush ‘Blue Chip’ (Buddleja davidii ‘Blue Chip’)
Butterfly Bush ‘Blue Chip’ is a hardy variety known for its striking deep sapphire flower spikes. These blossoms consistently rebloom throughout the summer, ensuring a continuous display of color and vibrancy.
As a deciduous shrub, it adapts well to various garden settings, providing a splash of striking color and attracting butterflies. This plant is not only a visual delight but also an ecological boon, supporting pollinator populations. Its compact form makes it suitable for smaller gardens or patio containers, offering versatility and beauty wherever it’s planted.
9. Rose of Sharon ‘Blue Bird’ (Hibiscus syriacus ‘Blue Bird’)
Rose of Sharon ‘Blue Bird’ is a vase-shaped shrub that stands out with its ruffled, cornflower-blue hibiscus blooms. These flowers grace the garden from midsummer into fall, offering a long-lasting display of beauty.
The shrub’s distinct shape and vibrant flowers make it a popular choice for ornamental gardening. Its blooms are not only visually striking but also attract pollinators, adding ecological value to its aesthetic appeal. Easy to care for and resilient, Rose of Sharon ‘Blue Bird’ is a must-have for those seeking to add color and life to their gardens.
10. Mophead Hydrangea ‘Nikko Blue’ (Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Nikko Blue’)
Mophead Hydrangea ‘Nikko Blue’ is a classic garden favorite, known for its large, sky-blue mophead clusters. These blooms, lasting for weeks, are a testament to the plant’s enduring beauty and charm.
In acidic soil, the vivid blue of the flowers is particularly striking, making it a sought-after choice for gardeners. Its ability to thrive in various conditions, coupled with its captivating appearance, makes Hydrangea ‘Nikko Blue’ a versatile and rewarding plant. Whether in a formal garden or a casual landscape, it adds a touch of elegance and timeless beauty.
11. Potato Bush (Solanum rantonnetii)
The Potato Bush, or Solanum rantonnetii, is a semi-woody shrub celebrated for its vibrant, star-shaped electric-blue flowers. Blooming almost year-round in warm climates, it offers a constant splash of color to any garden.
This resilient plant is perfect for those seeking low-maintenance beauty that doesn’t compromise on impact. Its bright flowers, coupled with its robust nature, make it an excellent choice for a variety of landscapes. Whether used as a border plant or a standalone feature, the Potato Bush is sure to delight gardeners with its vibrant presence.
12. False Indigo-Bush (Amorpha fruticosa)
False Indigo-Bush, known scientifically as Amorpha fruticosa, is a tough, drought-tolerant shrub. Its deep indigo bottlebrush spikes, fading to purple, lend a striking visual element to any garden.
This plant is particularly suited to dry landscapes, thriving where other plants might struggle. Its flowers not only add color but also attract beneficial insects, making it an ecological asset. Whether as part of a native plant garden or a resilient landscape design, False Indigo-Bush offers beauty and practicality in equal measure, adapting well to challenging growing conditions.
13. Blue Peter Rhododendron (Rhododendron ‘Blue Peter’)
Blue Peter Rhododendron is a compact evergreen prized for its soft periwinkle, bell-shaped flowers. These blooms are a gentle addition to shaded borders, bringing a touch of color where it’s often needed most.
The plant’s lush foliage complements its delicate flowers, creating a harmonious garden presence. Ideal for those seeking beauty in shaded areas, Blue Peter Rhododendron offers a refreshing change from the usual garden palette. Its elegant form and subtle hues make it a beloved choice among gardeners aiming for a sophisticated yet inviting outdoor space.
14. Blue Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis ‘Prolific Blue’)
Blue Wisteria, or Wisteria sinensis ‘Prolific Blue,’ is a vigorous vine-like shrub renowned for its pendulous clusters of fragrant, powder-blue blossoms. These floral cascades create a stunning visual impact, draping elegantly over garden structures.
In spring, Blue Wisteria transforms spaces with its lush blooms and intoxicating fragrance, making it a favorite for garden arches and pergolas. Its dramatic appearance and sweet scent create a romantic ambiance, perfect for those looking to add a touch of drama and elegance to their gardens. Embrace its beauty and enjoy a garden filled with charm.
15. Skyflower Shrub (Clerodendrum trichotomum ‘Ugandense’)
Skyflower Shrub, also known as Clerodendrum trichotomum ‘Ugandense’ or Blue Glory-bower, is a tropical-looking plant that stands out with its large, winged bracts and tubular blue flowers. These blooms offer a unique visual contrast to typical garden flora.
Its exotic appearance and lush growth make it an attractive addition to vibrant garden landscapes. The Skyflower Shrub’s striking form and color provide a focal point in any setting, inviting curiosity and admiration. Whether used in a tropical-themed garden or as a standalone specimen, it elevates the aesthetic appeal of outdoor spaces.