Amsonia hubrichtii – Perennial Plant of the Year

Amsonia in Battery Park, NYC

Last May I went on a fabulous tour of some of NYC’s parks beginning with Battery Park.  There I saw Amsonia, which some bloggers had been raving about. I looked at this mass planting and did not see what all the raving was about. The flowers seemed inconsequential.  I was not impressed.

Now I read that Amsonia hubrichtii has been named the Perennial Plant of the Year by the Perennial Plant Association. How could this be?  The PPA  choses plants that ” are suitable for a wide range of climate types, low maintenance, easily propagated, and exhibits multiple season interest.”  In the past they have celebrated many plants that I can appreciate including Baptisia Australis, David phlox,  and Geranium ‘Rozanne’. I couldn’t say they didn’t know their business, so why Amsonia?

Rhonda Fleming at the Garden Buzz had something to say about Amsonia – and it wasn’t good. Fortunately, she reminded me that there are lots of reasons a plant may not look notable. I  also realized one reason may be the variety. Weston Nurseries supplied this photo of Amsonia hubrichtii, native to Arkansas and Oklahoma,  which looks a whole lot better than the Amsonia growing in Battery Park.  Much more floriferous.

I only saw the Amsonia in the spring, but the PPA promises that the foliage will go on to provide fine fluffy golden foliage into the fall.  If you have a sunny spot with good drainage, this low maintenance plant that will grow into a three by three foot clump. It is of no interest to hungry deer.  Good to know.

Have you had experience with Amsonias?