Ozark Bluestar features prolific clusters of star-like periwinkle blossoms, often bunched so tightly together that they appear as a much larger looking bloom. Flowering in early to mid-spring, this plant provides nectar for many butterflies and bees before most other food sources are available. The leathery leaves are glossy and narrow, much like a willow's. After the flowers fade, elongated seedpods droop from the stem tips, adding rich purple sprays to the shrub-like mound. An extra bonus: the foliage turns a stunning golden hue for fall interest, often keeping its leaves and color well past the first frost. Amsonia illustris is very tolerant of most sun and soil conditions. It even excels in clay! Easily grown from seed, it may be prudent to remove the seedpods for the first few years until its size and form is established; there is a large amount of variation within this species. In shady or overly rich soils, the stems may flop. If the plant is in optimal conditions, it can grow well beyond the typical 3 foot expectations. Because it is so resilient, hard pruning after the flowers have dropped, even by much as half the length of each stem, is not harmful